SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium, Sept 16, 2007 (AFP) - Formula One driver David Coulthard has spoken of his sadness over the tragic news that former world rally champion Colin McRae has been killed in a helicopter crash.

McRae, 39, was piloting the helicopter carrying his five-year-old son Johnny, a six-year-old friend Ben Porcelli and 27-year-old family friend Graeme Duncan which crashed in the grounds of his Lanark home in southern Scotland on Saturday.

Speaking at Sunday´s Belgian Grand Prix Coulthard reacted to the death of his fellow Scotsman and close friend who in 1995 became the first British World Rally Champion.

"In line with many people, I´m shocked and saddened to hear of the loss to the McRae family, of father and son, and obviously we must acknowledge the others that were on board the helicopter as well," Coulthard said.

"Colin was a remarkable man who wore his heart on his sleeve and was the epitome of a racer; fearless and attacking, yet he remained true to his roots and grounded despite the international fame and recognition that he achieved. The world is a sorrier place without him."

Motor sport governing body, the FIA, also paid tribute to McRae.

"The FIA extends sincere condolences to the families of all those involved in this awful accident.

"Colin McRae made an enormous contribution to motor sport and his spectacular driving style endeared him to fans throughout the world," the FIA said in a statement.