Australian Mark Webber has extended his contract with the Red Bull team until 2011, the Formula One outfit confirmed on Monday.
“It was an easy decision to remain with Red Bull Racing,” the 33-year-old world championship leader said.
“We began talking very early this year and were in a position to sign by the Barcelona Grand Prix.”
Webber, who joined Red Bull in 2007, added: “It’s widely known 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.
“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 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.”
Webber achieved his first Formula One victories this year in Spain and Monaco, and leads the drivers’ standings by five points from defending champion Jenson Button of McLaren.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said: “The decision to retain Mark was very straightforward. He is an important member of our team and is currently in the best form of his career, as the current leader of the drivers’ championship.
“The team is extremely happy that the driver pairing of Mark and Sebastian will remain unchanged for a third season in 2011.”
Red Bull’s second driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany will also be under contract with the team until next year.
Red Bull are currently second in the constructors standings behind McLaren. — AFP