McLaren Drivers Delighted with New Deal

Scot David Coulthard and Finn Kimi Raikkonen were delighted after it was announced that they would continue driving for the McLaren team in 2003.

"In the competitive environment of Formula One, I think it is an important factor for the team and the drivers to have continuity," said Coulthard, who has been with McLaren for seven seasons.

"Kimi and myself have been developing a good relationship during the 2002 season, and I look forward to the continuation of this next year."

The Scot, who finished runner-up in last year's Championship, wished a happy retirement to former teammate and two-time champion Mika Hakkinen, who confirmed on Friday he will not return to racing next season.

"The value the team places on stability is clear as my partnership with Mika was the longest driver pairing in Formula One, and I would like to wish my old teammate a happy retirement with his family," Coulthard said.

Raikkonen, who made his Formula One debut with the Sauber squad last season before moving to McLaren in 2002, was also glad to remain with the Woking-based team next year and said he was hoping to fight for the title in 2003.

"I'm pleased to be staying with McLaren as I have really enjoyed my first season with the team," said Raikkonen. "I have learnt a lot in these past couple of months, am very excited about the future, and believe David, the team and myself will be able to challenge for the World Championship next year.

"As a fellow Finn, I'm sure Mika will keep an eye on me and also the team's progress next year from home."

McLaren also confirmed that Austrian Alexander Wurz will be their test and reserve driver for the third consecutive season.

"I'm very happy to enter a long-term contract with McLaren as third driver," added Wurz. "I've grown into this role over the past two years and it's an integral and challenging position within the team."