David Coulthard was in reflective mood after the Canadian Grand Prix, perhaps realising that his surprise trip to the podium might be a last chance to experience the glory of Formula One before the curtain comes down on his long career.
The Scot has been at the centre of several rumours this season, ranging from joining former world champions
Renault as replacement for the under-fire
Nelson Piquet Jr to lining up a television role alongside advisor Martin Brundle when British
F1 coverage switches to the
BBC in 2009. Although he has made no direct reference to this year being his last in the top flight, DC's comments during the Montreal press conference hinted at a man coming to terms with retirement.
"I think it is my 62nd podium and I am as delighted to be here as I was in 1994 when I had my first podium and scored my first points," Coulthard said after the incident-filled race.
"I am in a reflective mood in my career as, obviously, 15 seasons is a long time for anyone, especially after such an ugly start to the season. The clock is definitely ticking and I'm delighted about that because I've had a great journey in my career and through life, and the alternative doesn't excite me very much.
"I appreciate that Mika [Hakkinen] brought his career to an end relatively quickly - and I think, on reflection, probably too quickly - [but] I don't feel that I've done that and I guess most of you would agree. I've enjoyed it to the maximum. We're all different, we all make our choices and I'm delighted with the choices that I've made."
Recalling his early days in
Formula One, Coulthard was able to empathise with race winner
Robert Kubica, but reserved some of his excitement for his own team as well.
"It is great to see the younger guys enjoying their first victories, [and] I am very happy for Robert and for
BMW," he admitted, "I think they are deserved winners of this grand prix.
