This might be sad news for British Formula 1 fans. Prior to the arrival of wonderboy, Lewis Hamilton, David Coulthard was the British F1 driver. Apologies to Jenson Button et al, David Coulthard deserves that praise. But after days of brewing, it’s now official - DC is retiring at seasons end.

In an issued personal statement Coulthard explains himself:

My decision to retire was taken earlier in the year and is based on a desire to stop while I am still competitive and enjoying the immense challenge that Grand Prix driving represents. I also have the desire to look for new challenges within the sport. The decision to make this announcement at the British GP should be an obvious one for all to understand, as I have achieved two of my thirteen F1 victories at Silverstone and I am a member of the British Racing Drivers’ Club, which hosts this event.

It’s an end of an era. While Lewis Hamilton will be the one who have, since last season, picked up the reigns, Coulthard’s retirement is an end to another chapter. He might not be a Michael Schumacher but after being around for quite some time, you got to hand it to the old guy.