Irvine jealous of Rubens?

[downforce]

But Irvine, who worked with Brawn while he was at Ferrari, said that while strategic mastery worked, Ferrari would be nowhere without the driving strengths of Michael Schumacher, who won his World title this year.

‘I’m sorry to shatter the illusion that many have, but he has little to do with Schuey’s success,’ said Irvine in "The Sun" newspaper. ‘Take Schumacher out of the equation and what would Ferrari have won?

‘You only have to look at Schumacher’s team-mate Rubens Barrichello. He’s a damn good driver and has Brawn at his side, but it did little for him all season.’

Rubens being called the toughest partner to Schu has forced Irvine on the defensive???....What dyu think?

[Neil C]

Originally posted by downforce
‘Take Schumacher out of the equation and what would Ferrari have won?

Simple answer? Everything that McClarens didnt win.

Which is to say there is some truth to Irvine's comment, but, given that, Ferrari is still far and away the only close competition to the Macs. Brawn is due some credit for that.

[downforce]

but is Irv trying to indirectly play down Rubens' achievements?

[Neil C]

I dont think so Downforce. I read the excerpts of the interview that were published on the http://www.jaguarracing.com site and at one point Irvine says that Rubens is a very good driver, but having Brawn at his side didnt do him much good. Which is a reference to your comment about, taking away Shu, what would Ferrari have won?

I see this as a slap at Brawn. I didnt infer anything about RB except that he is good, but not as good as MS.

[downforce]

btw NeilC...I didnt say that, Irv did. That was part of his quote!!!...ITV-F1
"The motives behind Irvine’s outburst towards Brawn remain unclear. However, it is worth noting that in his first season with Ferrari, Eddie Irvine managed to secure only one podium finish, compared to Barrichello’s nine."...ESPN

[White Van Man]

It is also worth noting that this years car was an altogether different proposition than that which Mr I made his debut in. A championship winning car, in fact... A small fact, but an important one, I think...