F1: Webber Not Targeting 2013 Retirement

Formula 1

F1: Webber Not Targeting 2013 Retirement

Australian Mark Webber sees long future in series...

SPEED Staff / GMM | Posted March 04, 2013 GMM Newswire

Mark Webber of Australia and Infiniti Red Bull Racing prepares to drive during day three of Formula One winter testing at the Circuit de Catalunya on March 2, 2013 in Montmelo, Spain. (Photo: Getty Images)

Mark Webber has dismissed any suggestion he has replaced Michael Schumacher as F1's oldest driver speeding towards the paddock exit.

With Schumacher now back in retirement, Australian Webber, who turns 37 in August, is the oldest active race driver on the grid.

Combined with his new one-year contract for 2013, the situation has raised expectations this season could be the Red Bull driver's swansong.

"I don't see this as my last year in Formula One," Webber told the Sun newspaper.

"I have signed one-year contracts for the last four years here even when I am fighting for the world championship."

Webber said it is arguable he is even the F1 driver closest to the finish-line, as Jenson Button has actually contested more Grands Prix.

"(But) it means absolutely jack" he insisted. "If Michael Schumacher was still on the grid, then how would that make me feel any different?

"I still feel 25. I know I am not but I feel young. I don't feel as though I am getting tired when driving the car. I feel good," said Webber.