Coughlan apologises over spygate

Mike Coughlan has publicly apologised for the first time over the role he played in the infamous 'spygate' saga.

After four years away from Formula One, Coughlan on Monday began his new role as chief engineer at Williams. The appointment has been a controversial one as there are many within the sport, particularly at Ferrari, who have never forgiven Coughlan over what transpired in 2007.

Having been given a second chance in F1 by Williams, Coughlan is eager to set the record straight, starting with him saying sorry for his actions of four years ago, and he said: "I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to everyone who was affected by my conduct, and in particular the people at McLaren and Ferrari and the fans of those teams."

He added: ""I sincerely regret my actions and I fully accepted the penalty given to me by the FIA. I can only hope I can earn back everyone's respect."

Working at McLaren at the time as their chief designer, Coughlan was found to be in possession of a dossier of technical secrets belonging to Ferrari. It resulted in McLaren being fined a sporting record of nearly £50million by the FIA, who also suspended Coughlan from motor sport for two years.

Coughlan has revealed that what happened to him in 2007 was a "life-changing experience", one he is convinced has made him a better person.

"It made me reflect upon myself and my actions," added Coughlan. "Leaving a team and a sport that I love, and then seeing the consequences of my actions on the team and its fans was devastating.

"All I can do now is work hard and try to earn my place back in Formula One. This is what I am determined to do with Williams."

The aim for Coughlan is to return Williams to winning ways as they endure the leanest spell in their illustrious history, and in the wake of the start to this year being their worst since they entered F1.

"I am excited to work with the team to try and recapture their past glory," said Coughlan. "This would have been great at any point in my career because Williams is such an iconic team, but it is made even more special because I have been given the chance to return to Formula One."