Coulthard loses car to team-mate

Britain’s David Coulthard was forced to give up his car after championship-chasing team-mate Kimi Raikkonen crashed out of practice for the Japanese Grand Prix today.

The Finn damaged his McLaren-Mercedes after hitting the tyre barrier in the first session when losing control at turn two at Suzuka.

McLaren bosses realised at the end of the session that Raikkonen’s car could not be repaired in time for final practice so gave him Coulthard’s car.

“The team took the decision in view of the championship position,” said a McLaren spokeswoman.

Raikkonen has to win tomorrow’s race and hope Ferrari rival Michael Schumacher fails to finish in the top eight to snatch the title and become the youngest world champion in history.

The spare car, which was set up for Raikkonen, will now be handed to Coulthard for qualifying and the race while the damaged car will become the spare.

Drivers cannot use the spare car in practice if their race machine is damaged but are allowed to switch to their team-mate’s.