5 THINGS I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT
Former Formula One driver turned presenter and entrepreneur DAVID COULTHARD, 47, lives in Monaco with his wife Karen Minier, 45, and their nine-year-old son Dayton
1 MY SON
I have had a wonderful life full of opportunities. But I can honestly say that all the material richness in the world is nothing compared to my family.
My wife, parents and brother are all central to my happiness but being a dad has been a revelation.
When I was younger, I was too focused on my racing career to think about fatherhood.
So Dayton came along at the right time as I can now give him my full focus.
We do so much together and I am happy to encourage his passion for sailing.
Whatever he ends up wanting to do with his life, I will be there to support him.
2 MONACO
I had a wonderful upbringing in Scotland which still has a very special place in my heart. But for the last 25 years I have lived in Monaco and it now feels very much like home. It’s a bit like living in a big village because it’s such a friendly and safe community, and the perfect place for bringing up children.
My stepdaughter is now 20 and I never worry about her being out at night here.
It’s great for Dayton too, as Monaco provides such a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle and there are so many wonderful things to do.
3 WHISKY
In the last decade, I have discovered the joy of drinking whisky and can now imagine myself as an old man, sitting in a rocking chair in the sun, sipping a Scotch and reflecting on a life well lived.
Life can be complicated and a glass of whisky seems to soften any mood.
4 RADIO
Music has been a big part of my life and I always like to have something playing in the background which is why I love the radio so much.
It isn’t as intrusive as a blaring television and you can get on with whatever you’re doing while still listening. In the morning, I like Chris Evans on Radio 2 as I think he’s great. Later I tune into Capital FM as it keeps me up to date with new music as well as the news.
5 CYCLING
I’m afraid I am one of those middle-aged men in Lycra who loves to zip around on a bike.
Often I will drop Dayton at his school before joining friends on a quick jaunt to Italy where we will have lunch, before heading back in time for me to pick him up again.
It’s such a lovely day out and, as the Italian border is only about eight miles away, it’s a very doable little spin. What I love about cycling is that you’re out in the fresh air, and living here there is so much beautiful scenery to take in. It’s never about being the fastest or fittest – my competition days are behind me – it’s simply enjoying the ride.
David Coulthard is celebrating the return of the prestigious DTM race series to the UK. Racing for the first time on the full Grand Prix circuit, the DTM championship will be held at Brands Hatch on August 11-12.