Coulthard expects to know future soon

The British driver's contract with the team runs out at the end of the season and, although there have been rumours of interest from Toyota, Coulthard has made no secret that his first choice is to stay where he is.

Speaking in his official column in the News of the World, Coulthard said he was fired up to remain in F1 next year and hoped an answer would come within the next few weeks.

"My Formula One future should be decided soon, possibly in a month or so," he said. "But I want to stay with Red Bull (Racing) and I have started talks with them about next year."

He added: "I intend being around for a few years yet - and I haven't given any thought whatsoever to what I will do when I retire.

"Remember, I'm only 35. I don't recall people saying Nigel Mansell was too old when he won the title at 39."

Coulthard is adamant that his age is no barrier to success, and that the experience he has gained in F1 in his 200 races is worth more than anything any of the sport's younger stars can offer.

"I'm racing young guys who still live at home, but they need time to develop. They aren't going to be any quicker than I am. If you rush someone in and they aren't ready you can crush their career."