The official group photo of the World Championship winning team was taken, then the shutters of the Ferrari garage were lowered slowly.

As per the best Italian traditions, the team celebrated behind closed doors. Champagne and hugs: Ferrari celebrated and its drivers celebrated a one - two that brought the Constructor' title home five races before the end of the season.

After his twelfth victory in thirteen races Michael allowed himself a glass of wine and a cigar, before leaving for home shortly after 19:00. The real party will be held at Maranello.

"What we do on the track is only the tip of the iceberg of what is done in the factory," said Michael. "I think it is great celebrating with the Ferrari team

"The foundations of our success are based on the work of every single member of the team at Maranello and everyone of them deserves the title," he continued, "so it is right that every single one of them takes part not only in the successes but also in the celebrations.

"Ferrari has achieved something truly remarkable over the past few years," he added. "I think we are living in an extraordinary historical moment and this history has been written not only by our partners but everybody at Maranello. This surprising and incredibly reliable single seater has brought us where we are today and is the results of the surprising and meticulous motivation that each of the team brings to his work. We have to really live this moment, we should enjoy it, because it is a really special occasion. We all know that there will be different times ahead but our success gives us the strength to overcome them.'

On Monday afternoon Michael flew to Maranello to meet Luca di Montezemolo and the Ferrari management. In the evening there was a huge party at the Fiorano circuit.