Grapevine: More News from the Paddock - French GP

Ralf's Birthday Present

Ralf Schumacher may have landed his maiden pole position in Saturday's qualifying session, but the Williams driver revealed that it had been his first birthday present. Ralf, who celebrates his 26th birthday today, said: "My parents aren't here obviously so I have had no presents. Pole is very nice though." His brother Michael added: "It wasn't a present from me, he worked very hard for it."

Rahal's Grand Prix Love

Bobby Rahal's love for Grand Prix racing was epitomised in his appearance at a screening of the memorable film in the France Grand Prix paddock on Friday evening. British American Racing hosted an "American" night with a screening of the classic film "Grand Prix" accompanied by burgers and beers. The most notable face in audience was that of Rahal and the Jaguar CEO enjoyed every moment of the film, which stars former World Champion Graham Hill among others.

Drivers Enjoy the Sun

According to 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve, the glorious sunshine of the French Grand Prix has had an effect on the 22 drivers on the grid. After Friday's drivers' meeting, Villeneuve revealed that very little was said and added that the sunshine has calmed rival drivers and prevented heated arguments. "It was a very calm drivers meeting," he said. "I think we are more relaxed now. There was not much complaining - it must be the sunshine."

Two Jags

Eddie Irvine and Pedro de la Rosa haven't been resting since the European Grand Prix. The Jaguar pair were at Silverstone during the week for a Jaguar Cars' "international ride and drive" event. Irvine explained what it was all about: "This involves hurtling journalists around the race track in Jaguar road cars, including the new X-type. I have done plenty of these 'ride and drive' events and the real fun part is scaring the journalists witless by putting the X-type sideways everywhere and braking extremely late! I just hope the people at Jaguar had some good cleaning products for the leather seats!"

Coulthard's Costly Error

David Coulthard has been fined $1750 for exceeding the Magny Cours pitlane speed limit by 6.8 km/h. Coulthard is lucky it wasn't more because it is his third offence this season. He broke the speed limit in Brazil by 6.0 km/h and was fined $1500, and in Canada during the race where he was fined $5000.

Three Tyre Suppliers in F1?

The news that Bridgestone will remain in Formula One indefinitely means that there could be three tyre suppliers in the sport. Bridgestone and Michelin are currently battling at the front of the grid as McLaren, Ferrari and Williams do battle. With American supplier Goodyear seemingly ready to return to Formula One a triple battle is on the cards. Bridgestone were rumoured to be ready to leave the sport, but an announcement on Saturday warned that they are not finished yet.