Stewart slams British Grand Prix date

Former Jaguar Racing boss Jackie Stewart has spoken out against the decision to reschedule the British Grand Prix for May 13, rather than return it to its traditional July date

Jun 27, 2000, 12:21 PM

"I am very disappointed that the July date has not been restored because it has been traditional for a great number of years," said the three-times Formula 1 World Champion, who is expected to take over from Ken Tyrrell as BRDC president next month.

"Since Britain is the capital of motorsport it seems wrong to me that our race has not been given a time more suitable."

Stewart has backed his fellow Scot David Coulthard to take this year's Formula 1 drivers' title.

"David can win the title," said Stewart. "I have noticed a difference in him in recent races. When he came into Formula 1 he was with Williams and then he moved to McLaren, so he has always been with the best teams. Maybe that took a bit of the commitment and focus away, but now there is a realisation of what is at stake and what he can achieve this year. What David has got to do is keep scoring points consistently, as well as winning a few races. He is in a strong position if he keeps himself focused."