Special Recognition: David Coulthard

Coulthard never received a trophy on that night in 1989, as one had not yet been produced, but his long overdue silverware was finally handed over by another former award winner, Jenson Button, to the newly-retired Scotsman.

"It's fantastic to see it's got 1989 on it, the year I won the first award. I even remember lining up behind Ron's table to thank him for giving me the opportunity to drive his Formula One Car that night," said Coulthard.

"I'd also like to say thanks to Autosport for helping me over the years. For a while I was nervous that with the internet getting so huge, the magazine would disappear. But anyone who has taken a laptop to the toilet knows it's just not the same.

"So thanks to Autosport and to all those who've played a big part in my career."

Coulthard's 15-year Formula One career came to an end at this season's Brazilian Grand Prix following stints with Williams, McLaren and Red Bull.

"We'll have less accidents next year!" Red Bull Racing's team principal Christian Horner joked. "The guys on the front end of the car won't miss him!"

"We benefited hugely from David's experience. He's been great to work with, and moving into a new role I'm sure he's looking forward to it.

"He's had a great career and achieved a huge amount, and he will be missed."

In 246 starts he won 13 times, including two famous victories in Monaco, and became Britain's all-time leading points scorer in F1 history, breaking Nigel Mansell's record and ending up with 535 in his career.