Michael Schumacher leaves a meeting of drivers and team principals amid a crisis over the safety of Michelin tyres

Michelin director of F1 operations Nick Shorrock is at the centre of the affair with the media keen to hear his thoughts

The episode is triggered by Toyota's Ralf Schumacher who crashes after a puncture during Friday's practice session

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone faces the media as the row continues with the race rapidly approaching

The parties are unable to resolve the situation and the cars on Michelin tyres come into the pits on the parade lap

Seven teams boycott the race leaving only Ferrari, Jordan and Minardi to start a race which will have major ramifications

The Renaults of World Championship leader Fernando Alonso and team-mate Giancarlo Fisichella are backed into the garage

The American crowd do nothing to disguise their displeasure, with boos and thumbs-down signs all around the circuit

The retired drivers are left to their own devices, giving them a chance to reflect on the reasons behind the F1 fiasco

Cans and bottles are thrown onto the track, and supporters stream out of the circuit venting their anger at officials

The race is a procession for the Ferraris against the smaller teams with Michael Schumacher claiming eventual victory

The German records his first win of the season, with Rubens Barrichello in second and Tiago Monteiro an unlikely third