(GMM) Retiring seven time world Michael Schumacher has denied claims that he was forced to leave Ferrari earlier than he wanted.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone told Germany’s ‘Sport Bild’ this week that he thought the 37-year-old had been painted into a corner by the Italian team.

”I have the feeling that he had to make a decision at a time when he really didn’t want to,” the Englishman said.

Similarly, Schumacher’s long-time confidante and manager, Willi Weber, told British broadcaster ITV1 that the dilution of influence at Ferrari was the ‘main reason’ for the racer’s Monza decision.

But Schumacher said: ”Ferrari were incredibly gracious and left it all up to me to say when. I know there has been much speculation but the timing of the announcement was right.”

Earlier, he had also explained that delaying his decision any longer than July’s US grand prix at Indianapolis may have compromised teammate Felipe Massa’s career.

”I thought it was fair to find a moment so that Felipe has a chance to decide his future, rather than just hang in there and maybe take something away from him,” Schumacher said.

”I believe he’s very talented and a great person.”

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