JULY 2, 2001
Coulthard ready to exert pressure on Schumacher
DAVID COULTHARD has vowed to put the pressure on Michael Schumacher at the British Grand Prix in 13 days as rumors continue that the Scot has signed a deal which will keep him at McLaren next season.
Coulthard, who fell 31 points adrift of Schumacher at Magny-Cours, admits that with only seven races remaining it is time to make a charge in an effort to land his first-ever title.
Coulthard said: "I think we can come back at Silverstone and I know I can win the British Grand Prix. It is a circuit where I believe Ferrari and Williams will be strong but I also feel we can perform well."
Paddock rumors suggest that Coulthard has already put pen-to-paper for the 2002 season but the team is holding fire on announcing the deal until the future of team-mate Mika Hakkinen is known.
Team boss Ron Dennis is thought to be waiting to sort out the name of his second driver before revealing Coulthard's decision but the Briton is staying focused on the job in hand.
Coulthard added: "Ferrari have had the better package but we've been trying to improve our package all season. We've done it in some races but not in others.
"I'm concerned with getting the most out of myself in every race and mistakes aside I think I have done that. I love racing at home and I'd love to give the fans something to shout about."