Horner praises David Coulthard’s commitment!

Red Bull Racing’s team principal Christian Horner thinks that David Coulthard is heading towards another season even bigger than the many that have come before in his great career.

Although Coulthard is the oldest driver still active in F1, Horner is convinced that the Briton still has much to offer in 2008 both to the sport and to his team.

« David’s motivation is undeniable, and he works very hard during the winter. He has improved his physical condition and is probably more motivated at the start of this new season, » stated Horner at the Autosport International Show.

« As we saw during the recent tests, Michael Schumacher, who is two years older than David, once again demonstrated the feats he could accomplish behind the wheel of a single-seater. Age is therefore not an obstacle if you are motivated, committed, and if the objectives are clearly defined. »

Horner also paid tribute to the efforts of Coulthard’s teammate, Mark Webber, who was very close to winning his first Grand Prix with Red Bull Racing last year.

« They are both seasoned drivers, and I was extremely impressed with Mark in 2007. Furthermore, his performances in qualifying have been exemplary, » he explained.

« Very often, he surprises us with tricks that seem to come out of nowhere, even if he didn’t have his share of luck on Sunday during the race. »

« The podium at the Nurburgring in atrocious conditions was a highlight of the season, as well as what could have been his first victory at Fuji. »

David and Mark are two reliable assets on the team, they work well together, and their approach is very aligned. They are both extremely professional and dedicated to F1. They suit us perfectly.

Red Bull Racing will unveil its new RB4 car in Jerez, Spain next week, with high hopes. It will build on the speed of last year’s car. The challenge is to overcome the reliability issues that cost the team many points in 2007.

The team has significantly strengthened over the past 18 months. There have been steady investments since Red Bull acquired the team in 2005, Horner stated.

« The people working for the team have gotten into the habit of collaborating with each other. It is now a reasonably sized team, and we are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the RB4. »