McLaren confirms Coulthard for 2004

The announcement ends the speculation that there was an outside chance of Juan Pablo Montoya switching to the team next season, before the end of his existing contract with Williams, which expires at the end of 2004.

"I'm pleased to be driving for the team for a ninth year in succession and after such an amount of time it's inevitable that strong relationships have been established and I really feel part of the West McLaren Mercedes family," said Coulthard.

"I'm convinced that my experience will continue to provide the team with great benefits and look forward to the last four races. I will do everything I can to support the team in its world championship battles and then both Kimi and I will start focusing on our 2004 campaign."

McLaren boss Ron Dennis said: "I believed we have achieved our objective in having the best drivers available. David and Kimi form a strong combination."

The team has also confirmed that both Alexander Wurz and Pedro de la Rosa will continue in their testing roles, ending speculation that the Austrian would leave the team next season to make a return to racing.