Schumacher apologises for 'podium antics'.

Michael Schumacher has expressed his regret for any offence he may have caused during his world championship celebrations on the weekend.

The German was roundly condemned by former Italian president Francesco Cossiga for conducting along to the country's national anthem while standing atop the Suzuka podium on Sunday - something both Schumacher and team-mate Rubens Barrichello have done on numerous occasions this season.

The ex-premier described the display as an affront to the Italian public, who have helped fund Ferrari's championship winning campaign over the years. Schumacher, on hearing the criticism, decided to apologise for his actions, but put them down to the scenes of joy emanating from the entire Ferrari team in the pit-lane below the podium.

"I have the utmost respect for the Italian national anthem," he said, "but from the podium, I saw everyone underneath chanting and dancing, so I did the same. I apologise if my behaviour has been interpreted as a sign of disrespect."