Michael announced he would retire as a Formula 1 driver at the post-race press conference of the 2006 Italian grand prix. This was his 90th GP win and Ferrari’s home race. His retirement followed his achievement of a record seven driver’s world championship titles.

Michael said: “At the end of this year, I’ve decided, together with the team, that I’m going to retire from racing.”

President of Ferrari, Luca di Montezemolo said: “I had always said that the decision to retire would be his alone, but now that decision has been taken, I feel a sense of sadness.”