Austrian GP McLaren race notes

West McLaren Mercedes driver David Coulthard claimed victory in today's Austrian Grand Prix to narrow his deficit in the Drivers World Championship to four points. David started the race from seventh position but claimed the lead on lap 47. Team-mate Mika Hakkinen stalled at the start after experiencing a problem with the launch control sequence. The West McLaren Mercedes team remains second in the Constructors' Championship with 42 points.

'Whilst we are enjoying today's success our thoughts and sympathy go to the wife and family of Paul Morgan. A true colleague and genuine friend.'

David Coulthard:
'This must have been a great race to watch and it was definitely fun to drive. Lots of close battles and overtakings and I'm really pleased to win. We started the race on quite a heavy fuel load to allow ourselves some flexibility in the strategy. It meant that I could stay out four laps more than Michael Schumacher and three more than Rubens before my pit stop. I did have one or two problems with backmarkers during the race but fortunately it didn't cost me my position. There were no quiet periods but despite the pressure from Barrichello I felt that I had the race under control.'

Mika Hakkinen:
'I must admit that I'm extremely disappointed. We are still not sure exactly what the problem was -- it could be technical or it could be me. We will have to look at all the data but no matter what it means that my chances of winning the Championship are now somewhat reduced.'

Ron Dennis:
'The enjoyment of David's win is certainly matched by the pleasure of our strategy in achieving its objective. A sensational, disciplined and aggressive drive from David was a vital ingredient in the outcome. We will not have a clear understanding regarding Mika's problem until the data is inspected tomorrow and we will share that information once it's available. Well done to the whole team.'

Norbert Haug:
'A great performance by David and the entire team. Our strategy meant that David was able to stay out longer than any other driver before his pit stop. I feel sorry for Mika who was not able to participate in the race but we will find out what the reason for his problem was.'