Zoom Coulthard takes the microphone

David Coulthard will turn to television punditry for his first year of Formula One race retirement in 2009.

The British broadcaster BBC on Monday confirmed that the Scot, who drove in F1 for Williams, McLaren, and most recently Red Bull, will support the presentation of the sport next year as an expert pundit.

"My passion for the sport is still very much alive, and therefore I was delighted to be given the opportunity to share my views and experiences through the BBC's coverage of F1," he said.

Also in a punditry role will be the former Grand Prix team owner Eddie Jordan, as F1's British television rights switch for the first time in more than a decade from ITV.

Veteran of 158 Grand Prix, and more than 180 as a commentator, Martin Brundle will call the races alongside Jonathan Legard.

In a statement, the BBC also said legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker will have a "regular presence" on the BBC website.

The BBC's rights deal is for five years.

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Source: GMM