Newey backs Coulthard for title charge

Coulthard has borne the brunt of much criticism over whether he is a worthy rival to four-time world champion Michael Schumacher. But Newey says that the Scot is improving all the time and is more than capable of filling the void left by Mika Hakkinen, who is taking a sabbatical from F1 this year.

"I have often heard it said that if David was going to be world champion, he would have done it by now, because he is an experienced driver and has had a frontline drive since 1995," said Newey. "But I do believe that every year, he gets a little bit better."

McLaren was perceived to have a performance deficit to main rival and world champion Ferrari last year, and Newey admits that it is up to the Woking-based team to provide Coulthard with a car capable of taking him to the title.

"I think David did a very good job in 2001 and will be even better in 2002," added Newey. "We just have to give him a good car."

For more from Newey, including his views on team orders between Coulthard and new team mate Kimi Raikkonen for 2002, check out Thursday's AUTOSPORT.