AUSTRALIAN MARK WEBBER has signed a new contract with Red Bull for 2013, ending speculation that he will join Ferrari.
Webber, who lies second in the Formula One championship behind Fernando Alonso, has won nine races, including Sunday’s British Grand Prix, since joining Red Bull in 2007.
The 35-year-old had been linked with a move to partner Alonso at Ferrari next season, but opted to stay at Red Bull alongside reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel.
“I’m high on confidence at the moment and firing on all cylinders,” Webber said.
“I know the team well and I’m very comfortable here. We have grown together over the years and it feels like absolutely the right thing to stay with Red Bull for another season.
“The team is constantly working hard to improve in all areas and we’ve shown that together we can win races.
“It’s great to be able to make this announcement off the back of the win in Silverstone at the weekend and I’m looking forward to competing on the edge and pushing myself in every race again next season.”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner added: “Mark has driven very well in the first nine races of this season and his performance has been impressive.
“Much of his Formula One success has been during his time with Red Bull Racing and together we have achieved 10 poles, nine wins and 31 podiums.
“As there was a strong desire from both sides to continue the partnership, it was a logical decision to extend our relationship.”
Webber said any plans to retire from the sport would be dictated by his performances.
“I’ve been asked this question for the past four years and my answer remains the same. It’s a results-based sport at the front of the grid so the future lies in my own hands,” he said.
“It’s down to me to deliver the on-track results.”
Webber, who has finished third in the championship for the past two seasons, trails Alonso by 13 points in this year’s standings.
