He may never have a better opportunity of becoming world champion and every word and gesture confirms the single-minded conviction of his driving.Monaco still attracts celebrities and "wannabe" celebrities like no other race, although few are likely to be visible when Coulthard and the other 21-drivers begin practice this morning. The Hello and OK set will doubtless be out and about tonight and frolicking on the yachts in the harbour tomorrow when Formula One takes a break. For Coulthard the weekend will be a seamless schedule of work and concentration."There is a much bigger difference here for everybody else rather than the drivers,'' Coulthard said. "The parties, the functions and the glamour side are not for us We'll be tucked up in our beds.
We'll be focused on getting our cars right and making the right tyre selections.''This tight, meandering, unforgiving circuit has been hated by some of Formula Ones most distinguished drivers down the years Others have found it irresistible and spellbinding. Coulthard regards it as another place of work."I live here so I'm familiar with everything here anyway,'' he said "All I have to think about is the weekend ahead. It's all to play for but, as at any other race, it's only 10 points for a win But people who really have to work are the mechanics For them it is a logistical headache here. The drivers turn up, their cars are prepared and they drive.''That cold, detached view has been the making of many a champion.
However, Coulthard is not totally immune to Monaco's potential danger. He said: "It is a big buzz here, flying up to the Casino and over the rise into a blind left-hand corner. You have to look out for the Armco sticking out from the left It is a unique challenge in the Grand Prix calendar. I suppose it is safe until there is a serious accident."It doesn't mean the better drivers are going to be able to out-perform their cars You tend to get the same grid positions.
