Berger defends daredevil Montoya

BMW Motorsport Director Gerhard Berger has defended Williams' Juan Pablo Montoya, saying Formula One needs someone like him. Montoya and Michael Schumacher clashed in the opening lap of the Brazilian Grand Prix and the debate still rumbles on as to who was at fault.

Some feel that the Colombian was trying too hard to re-take the lead after Schumacher slipped past him, others that the German illegally blocked Montoya by cutting across in front of him. Stewards decided that no-one was to blame, it was racing incident.

Since then Montoya has expressed his annoyance, believing Schumacher was at fault and should have been penalized. The defending champion claims he never even felt the contact and can't understand why Montoya is so annoyed. Berger puts the situation down to an accident and does admit Montoya is a daredevil -- but in a way that is good for the sport. He also said that Schumacher was aware the Colombian would come out fighting at the Interlagos circuit and was only defending his position.

"Montoya is a real daredevil," Berger said. "This sport needs someone like him. That's why he is so popular in this scene; because in private he's a nice guy and in the car, he gives everything he has. This is why we signed with him. Montoya has respect for his sport. He would never want to harm himself, or others. Michael knew that this attack would come in Brazil. He defended it with all his might. A racing accident."