Horner does not rule out keeping Webber at Red Bull after 2013

At the dawn of the first Grand Prix of the season in Melbourne, all eyes are on Mark Webber, who currently represents the best chance of victory for his country.

At the wheel of a triple world champion single-seater, the Australian driver fuels rumors about his future.

Firstly, harsh statements from Helmut Marko had already set the stage in a tense atmosphere between the two men. Even though the Austrian, right-hand man of Dietrich Mateschitz, openly criticized Mark Webber, he nuanced his comments by stating: « He [Webber] has shown that he can be unbeatable on certain days. He now needs to string his performances together over the nineteen races of the year. He has improved and matured. Last year, he drove very well, and if he can get a good start and build some momentum this season… it will be very important for him. But above all, if we thought he wouldn’t be able to do it, we wouldn’t have extended him for an additional year. »

Christian Horner, the team principal, goes even further by stating to Press Association Sport that Webber might well continue the adventure with Red Bull beyond 2013: « Apparently, the last three years were supposed to be Mark’s last in Formula 1, » he comments ironically. He adds: « Yet, he has been retained by the team based on what he has shown us behind the wheel. And this rule will apply again this year. We want the strongest possible driver pairing, and Mark has significantly contributed to our three constructors’ titles. He was also very close to winning the drivers’ title in 2010. Mark has been hired by the team to do the best job possible, and that’s what we expect from him. »

Webber’s performances this season will once again be crucial for his future, as Horner confirms: « There are a ton of drivers who would love to be in his position at Red Bull. But he is here on his own merit, and as long as that’s the case, he will have his place with us. »