In the wake of David Coulthard’s retirement, Mark Webber says he has no concerns about being upstaged by his new team-mate next year whoever Red Bull Racing choose to replace the Scot.
The Aussie, who joined Red Bull Racing in 2007 alongside Coulthard, has faced his fair share of competition from across the garage after partnering the likes of Christian Klien, Nick Heidfeld, and Nico Rosberg during his years at Jaguar and Williams.
“Clearly I will have a different teammate next year,” reflected Webber. “I’ve had a few in my career – I’ve had young ones, pretty ones, all sorts, and I am looking forward to another one next year. I will be motivated, don’t worry, whichever one I get.”
Despite Coulthard’s time at Red Bull being spent very much during the twilight of his career, the Scot kept Webber honest despite struggling to match his searing qualifying pace.
“I’ve enjoyed working with David personally,” said Webber. “It has been very interesting working with someone who has won 13 grands prix and had a successful career – and will continue to push to the end.”
“I am happy to think that I played a role in continuing to push David until the end of his career – keeping him on his toes and I am sure he has enjoyed that challenge as well. We worked well together.”
The man widely tipped to be elevated to the second Red Bull seat for 2009 is German youngster Sebastian Vettel who has caught the eye team bosses in the F1 paddock after some impressive performances for Toro Rosso this year.
Vettel, who celebrated his 21st birthday on Friday, confirmed the rumours when he spoke to reporters:
“All I can say is that we haven’t spoken about that so far,” Vettel said. “Perhaps we will in the future, but so far we are only concentrating on this season.”
“I know the boss so that should help!” he joked.
When asked if he would move to Red Bull if the opportunity presented itself, Vettel answered: “Why not?”
