Coulthard speaks up for British GP

The Scottish driver is the latest BRDC member to speak out since Silverstone came in for criticism from F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone and FIA president Max Mosley who have recently suggested that the venue is not up to the standard of other circuits in Europe.

"I don't think Silverstone gets enough credit for the levels of investment they've put back into the circuit, not only to improve the actual track layout, but also the facilities for the fans," said Coulthard. "This year's grand prix is also being supported by a concert that'll take place afterwards - they've got Status Quo playing. So, bring all that together at the home of British motorsport, Silverstone, and I think we're going to have a great weekend.

"I would like the fans to focus on exactly what the event is: the most technologically-advanced racing cars on the track, with the best available drivers contracted at the moment, going to battle in a much closer season than in previous years.

"Forget all the access roads, the press rooms, the campsites - it's a sporting event. It is not about your two-week holiday in Benidorm where they are knocking up a building beside you and it is too noisy to sleep."

Silverstone has been kind to Coulthard over the years and certainly the driver feels a special bond with the Northamptonshire venue: "I feel very lucky to have won what, in my mind, are the big races at the most important tracks - Monaco, Spa and Monza - and the British Grand Prix is right at the top of the pack.

"Even as a young boy I could pick up on the atmosphere and the buzz that there was around the British drivers. To be honest, though, the British spectators are really appreciative of the sport, irrespective of what nationality the drivers are.

"This year will be the tenth time I have competed in the race, which over the years has seen some of the most memorable moments in my career, with my back-to-back victories in 1999 and 2000. As a Formula 1 driver, you always want to win your home grand prix so those races were something pretty special and it would be fantastic to repeat that result this year."