Coulthard Not Ruling Out Testing Role

David Coulthard would rather have a test driving role in 2005 than retire from Formula One altogether, the Scot admitted today.

Coulthard is leaving McLaren at the end of this year after driving for nine seasons with the Woking-based team. But he is now chasing the few options left for 2005 and may well end up without a racing seat next season.

Coulthard, who has more Grand Prix wins to his name than any other current driver bar World Champion Michael Schumacher, said he would be interested in a testing role if he is left without a racing seat.

"If a good opportunity to race doesn't come along, it would be crazy to give up a chance as test driver," Coulthard was quoted as saying on Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport. "I've brough forward some negotiations, and if that would be the thing that lets me stay in F1, with the freedom to race in Grands Prix if the chance arises, then I don't reject that possibility.

"Obviously I'd rather race but, if there are no seats, I must be open to other possibilities. I'm convinced that it's better to keep in shape while driving race cars than to wait by working out in the gym. [Jacques] Villeneuve was a good example of this: it was a tough comeback for him, even if physically he was in perfect shape."

Coulthard was negotiation with Jaguar before owners Ford decided to sell the team.