Mark Webber extends contract at Red Bull
Red Bull have announced that Mark Webber will be staying on as one of their Formula One drivers for next season.
Sebastian Vettel already had a deal for next season, but Webber’s future was uncertain. The Australian - currently leading the drivers’ world championship and enjoying his strongest season in Formula One - will stay on for one more year.
“It was an easy decision to remain with Red Bull Racing. We began talking very early this year and were in a position to sign by the Barcelona Grand Prix. The decision to extend for a further year was a mutual one. It’s widely know that I’m not interested in hanging around in Formula One just for the sake of it and at this stage of my career, I’m happy to take one year at a time,” said Webber.
There were suggestions that Kimi Raikkonen - now competing in rallying - could return to Formula One and replace Webber next season, but that will not be the case, and Red Bull will have the same driver line-up for three seasons in a row.
Following their collision at the Turkish Grand Prix - where Vettel was attempting to overtake Webber on the inside of his teammate’s racing line, leaving Webber with damage and Vettel retiring from the race - both drivers drew a line underneath the incident and will continue to fight for the drivers’ and constructors’ world championships.
“I continue to feel very comfortable here. I have a fantastic relationship with the whole team and the factory at Milton Keynes feels like home. It’s been incredible to be part of the team as it’s moved forward from a mid-field competitor to one that is challenging for the championship. I hope we experience more success together in the future and achieve our ultimate goal of winning the world championship,” said Webber.
The Australian has won two races so far this season and is now an integral part of the Red Bull team.
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