Coulthard conquers tough weekend

The Scot was scheduled to run for at least a day later this week in Spain, instead he will fly to London for a battery of extra tests on his painful midriff.

It was thought originally that he has just bruised his ribs, but said after the race he had suffered fractures on his lower right side.

"It wasn't being affected by the seat belts in the car because they go over my pelvis but it was being affected by the jarring and vibration in the cockpit over the last three days," he said.

The injuries were sustained in the crash at Lyon airport in which the two pilots were killed but he, fiancee Heidi Wichlinski and physiotherapist Andy Matthews survived.

"Heidi and Andy [Matthews] were also hurt, but while they have been getting better I have been getting worse."

"I think I will take it easy next week and miss the testing."

Coulthard admitted he was filled with emotion as he raced to second place in the Spanish Grand Prix.

"I felt more emotional during the race than at any time this weekend," he added.

"I am just glad I have got the weekend over with, but it was important for me to be here at this race because I have got a job to do.

"I am sure what happened this week will make me a stronger person. I certainly have a whole new perspective on what I want out of life and what is important."

The 29-year-old did not take part in the traditional podium celebrations as he stood alongside his McLaren team-mate Mika Hakkinen, overjoyed with his first win of the season.

"I didn't think it was appropriate to spray champagne when there are families mourning the loss of two lives.

"I was determined to come here and do a good job for myself and my team.

"I am determined not to give up an inch or give up my battle to try and win grands prix," added Coulthard.

"Michael Schumacher will always test you to the limit and I was not willing to give an inch.

"That's the way it was with Michael and Ralf today and that's the way I will be for the rest of the season.

"I want to show that I can go out there and win races and put myself up against the best in the world and I can beat them," he added.

"Second place was a great achievement considering the events of the week," said Ron Dennis, McLaren team boss. "When that kind of thing happens you are either going to become a stronger person or a weaker one.

"He got stronger. And he has shown us this week and today the strength of his character and the depth of his determination."

"And he has not made an issue out of the fact that he has been in quite a bit of pain because of his rib injury."