Coulthard's weekend off to a bad start

(10-Jul-98) - David Coulthard's British Grand Prix got off to a bad start
on Friday morning when he was outpaced by McLaren team-mate Mika Hakkinen
in opening practice and then handed an $8000 fine for speeding in the
pit-lane.

The Scot, who is desperate for a win at Silverstone to boost his title
chances, was hauled in front of the stewards to explain his actions. They
were not impressed.

A statement from the FIA said, "After receiving a report from the Race
Director concerning speeding in the pit lane (96.1km/h) by the driver of
car number 7 (D Coulthard), the Stewards of the Meeting asked the driver to
see them immediately after the first free practice session."

"Having heard the Competitor's representative and the driver's
explanation, the Stewards issued a warning to the driver and Competitor and
impose a fine of $8000, as it is his second pit lane speeding offence of
the season."

--- Msged/386 4.20 beta 4