Michael Schumacher is refusing to give up his title hopes after his gritty display at the Monaco Grand Prix.
The seven-time champion finished fifth after starting from last following his controversial actions in qualifying.
"I am still second in the standings and I think the title is still possible," said the defiant Ferrari ace. "Whoever knows me knows I do not give up."
The German also apologised to Fernando Alonso but again said he had not halted his last qualifying lap intentionally.
Schumacher was punished for stopping his car near the end of the session to prevent Renault's Alonso from setting a faster time.
Both driver and Ferrari's team management claimed it was a genuine error, but his conduct drew widespread condemnation in F1 circles.
"I can only apologise to Fernando," said Schumacher, who now trails Spain's reigning world champion by 21 points in the standings.
However, he added: "I did not know where he was (at the time) and I have a clear conscience."
Ferrari team chief Jean Todt continued to defend his top driver from criticism over the incident, saying: "We are in a world where people very easily overreact."
He claimed Schumacher's punishment was "exaggerated" and said of the stewards who handed it down: "When you are in front of a judge, it doesn't mean that their opinion is always right.
"Michael was very disappointed about the whole issue. But now he has to put it behind him and look ahead to the next race."
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone is the next race on the F1 calendar on 11 June.