Michael Schumacher: "I Really Rate Him Highly"

Michael Schumacher has expressed his feelings about a certain driver on the grid. Schumacher told the BBC in an interview, "I really rate him very highly, because I believe what he has done in such a short time is incredible."

So who is this mystery driver, would it be Felipe Massa, his former teammate? 

Here's another clue, Schumacher continued saying, "Competing with Alonso last year, and often being quicker talks for itself."

The mystery driver is of course Lewis Hamilton. After receiving such terrible press after Fuji, not just from the newspapers, but from former and current F1 drivers who seem to change tune after every race.

However, with the championship battle going on until the bitter end, Schumacher refused to say if he thought Hamilton was better than Massa. "I'm always a bit concerned if we talk about 'is he the best?' is he better then Massa or not. You have to look at the circumstances, they are not always very clear to see from the outside I think."

These are the comments we need to hear, comments from previous drivers who have often been called "the very best" on numerous occasions. If the seven time world champion says something, it's usually very true. If he spots talent, and rates it very highly, then its often true. I don't want this rubbish from under-achieving drivers putting Hamilton down, is it just bitter jealousy? 

Mark Webber and Jarno Trulli have been the main two people blasting ridiculous comments towards Hamilton's attitude and driving style. Okay, maybe they aren't under achieving with the machinery they have to hand, but it could certainly be jealousy which has provoked these comments.

Lewis Hamilton is obviously doing something right, as you don't lead the championship just by what team/car you happen to be in, driving ability has a lot to do with it. Just look at Heikki Kovalainen.

It seems Lewis has the backing of a big handful of ex-drivers, Schumacher, Lauda, Brundle, Stewart, to name but a few. Whilst the current (jealous?) drivers are mostly against him, his skills, his pace, and his future.

To watch the video click here. (This video was recorded after China).