Coulthard to lead McLaren charge

While much speculation has surrounded Hakkinen's future, Coulthard's contract with the Woking team for next year was confirmed earlier this summer.

"My contract with the team was agreed a few months ago and I'm looking forward to next year's championship challenge," said Coulthard. "Mika and myself have been team mates for six years - the longest ever in Formula 1 and we have worked well and competed hard."

With young gun and fellow Finn Kimi Raikkonen coming in to replace Hakkinen, the weight of leading the team will certainly fall on Coulthard's shoulders. However, Raikkonen has had an impressive debut season with the Sauber team and DC may have to watch his back.

"I understand Mika's reasons for having a break. Thanks to him, I have gained valuable insight into fast Finns, which I'm sure will be useful next year," quipped Coulthard.

Despite the rumours surrounding Hakkinen's future, the announcement of the double world champ's sabbatical still comes as a surprise. Coulthard has said for some time before this weekend that he did not expect things to change for next year.

Meanwhile, McLaren-Mercedes team boss Ron Dennis has expressed his faith in Coulthard and despite him not managing to mount a serious challenge against world champion Michael Schumacher for this year's title, Dennis will be hoping the Scot has it in him for 2002.

"We are pleased to continue our relationship with David, who has shown that he can win races and is obviously a strong championship contender," he said.

Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug also joined in the praise by saying: "David, having done a great job for the team for years, will be even stronger next year."

Top story: Raikkonen replaces Hakkinen at McLaren for 2002