Basically, the two parties will only have to come up with a financially-reasonable deal in order for Webber to continue with the team. Also, it is believed the 32-year old GP winner, as he's not in his mid 20s anymore, will seek a longer deal with RBR in order to secure his F1 future. And that's not something Horner looks ready to commit to, for the time being.
The Aussie has had a successful first part of the season so far, despite trailing younger teammate Sebastian Vettel in the overall classification. Webber scored his maiden F1 career last week, in addition to 4 other podium appearances in the first 8 rounds of 2009, and is now 3rd overall in the title race.
His ability to challenge for wins and podiums this season – mainly thanks to the perfectly-sculpted RB5, work of design guru Adrian Newey – is not the only ace down his sleeve, but also his being a great team player within the Milton Keynes outfit, argued Horner.
“Mark is doing a great job and he is a great team player. We have got a very good balance in the team and we will get around to talking to him about his contract shortly, but he is a very valued member of the team,” Horner was quoted as saying to Autosport.
The Brit did not reveal a final date for the conclusion of the negotiations.
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