Friday 26 / April / 2024
Muscat: Racing legend David Coulthard will strut his stuff in Muttrah Corniche for the 90-minute event. In an exclusive interview with Times of Oman he revealed views.
Tell us about your feelings prior to making your debut in the Omani capital, Muscat
“I’m really excited to go to Muscat. I have spoken to a number of people here in the Middle East and they all speak very highly of Oman. This will be my first time so I’m really looking forward to it.”
You have stunned thousands of fans in Asia, including Dubai and India, how excited are you about Oman?
“I’m very excited to get to Oman, I’ve heard the people there are really nice so it will be good to
meet them.”
I assume you are familiar with the hot and humid weather of the Middle East, will our sun cause you any trouble? And how do you keep yourself hydrated during the show?
“Driving in warm temperatures really effects the drivers because the cockpit temperature goes up and that puts extra strain on your decision making capabilities. I have always thought that F1 not only stands for the fastest cars but in a sporting context pushing yourself physically and mentally to the limit, so from that point of view I enjoy the extra challenge.”
What do you have to say to F1 fans in Oman?
“This is a great opportunity for all of you to see a Formula 1 car up close and personnel. Red Bull Show car program has gone all over the world and it always impresses. It connects with young children, males and females, and all age groups. It is a once in a lifetime experience.”
Apart from the show run, are you planning to go out and about in Oman? Any particular destination?
“I always enjoy the opportunity to not only demonstrate Formula 1’s capabilities but also soak up the local atmosphere. We are usually well looked after, given good recommendations of restaurants and places to see. One of the greatest pleasures of being a Grand Prix driver is being able to travel the world and meet the locals.”
If you could pick just one track to race on, what would it be?
“My favourite circuit is Spa in Belgium but thankfully I was also able to race, and win at the classic tracks like Monte Carlo, Monza and Silverstone. I’m a big fan of the history of our sport but I also think It’s important to continue to reach new territories, that’s what part of bringing an F1 car to Oman is all about and for me it’s a pleasure to be part of it.”
What is your favorite / worst memory of your time in F1?
“My favorite memory from F1is meeting people from all around the world and finding that irrespective of backgrounds, cultural differences, religion or any of those things at the end of the day cars are fascinating and bring people together, that’s been my greatest pleasure of being
involved in F1.”
Who is the best driver on the grid in your opinion?
“I think there are certain tiers. Guys like Lewis Hamilton, Daniel Ricciardo, Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel are unquestionably in that top tier. Then a knocking on the door just behind them, and I’m talking half a tenth you’ve got Nico Rosberg, Jenson Button and various other drivers. Then the next group are trying to show their skills to be in that top tier. You judge people on results based on the opportunity they have had so far, they are all there on merit and are good drivers but F1 is about finding the exceptional.”
