Coulthard says Vettel is best man for his job

LONDON (Reuters) - Retiring Formula One driver David Coulthard tipped Germany's Sebastian Vettel on Tuesday as the best man to replace him at Red Bull next season.

"For me Sebastian Vettel has everything that a future winner in Formula One needs," the Scot told the official formula1.com Web site.

"Also his maturity and approach shows that he is the best man for the job.

"So I am very confident that he would be able to do a very good job for Red Bull Racing."

Vettel, 21, is racing for Red Bull's sister team Toro Rosso this season and is the clear favourite to move up unless Renault's double world champion Fernando Alonso becomes available and is interested in the Renault-powered team.

Coulthard collided with Vettel on the opening lap of Sunday's British Grand Prix at Silverstone, ending both their races.

The 37-year-old Briton announced last week that he would be retiring at the end of the season.

"I am very happy to stop well before the enjoyment does, rather than wishing I was somewhere else," he said.