Red Bull host party to celebrate Coulthard’s career 12 Sep 2008
They say every picture tells a story, and in Monza, Red Bull have displayed 39 images throughout their Energy Station motorhome, which they hope encapsulate David Coulthard’s 14-year Formula One career.
And the exhibition, a tribute to the retiring Coulthard ahead of his final European race this weekend, proved to a fitting backdrop for the Scot’s farewell party, which the team hosted on Thursday night.
The event was packed to the rafters with well-wishers, including drivers and team managers from throughout the paddock. And as well as veteran colleagues Rubens Barrichello, Giancarlo Fisichella and Jarno Trulli, several younger drivers, including Kazuki Nakajima, Mark Webber and Nick Heidfeld also dropped in.
The pictures on display were taken by several leading Formula One photographers and included images of some of the Scot’s 13 race victories, as well as several portraits taken of the 37 year-old throughout his career.
“I have had a fantastic life over the years and I wouldn’t have wanted to miss one single second if it,” said a visibly moved Coulthard to the assembled guests in the Energy Station. “And I feel honoured that so many of you came here today to see what I did over the years.”
After this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix, Coulthard will race at a further four events, but it was his plans beyond the season finale in Brazil that dominated the conversation at the party. Certainly the biggest project on his horizon is the pending birth of his first child, but there were also whispers that he may be back in the paddock soon as a commentator.
Whatever waits around the corner for the Scot, one thing’s for sure - he’ll be sorely missed on the grid next season.
