Webber wraps up his two days of testing in Jerez

Mark Webber, Red Bull Racing RB9

Photo by: XPB Images

Mark Webber completed his first two days at the wheel of the Infiniti Red Bull Racing RB9 with a further 101 laps of the Jerez circuit today. After scoring the day’s fourth-best time of 1:19.338, he emerged from the car saying he’s confident that both the car and the team are heading in the right direction as the 2013 F1 season approaches.

"I think in terms of consistency it’s great,” he said. “I’m very happy with the car and myself. I might have bombed a few laps here and there, but I’ve done 170 or more, which is a good total for the first two days with a new car. Overall, it’s been very good. The car gives me the confidence to push pretty hard and that’s always an indication that you have something you can build on.

“The run plan this morning was pretty ambitious, but we have a lot of departments in the team looking for feedback, so it was important to get through the list. We accomplished most of it and that’s all you can ask for. People always ask about the times being done up and down the pit lane but, to be honest, I haven’t looked. We can only look at what we’re doing, and so far we’re satisfied with where we are.

“We’ve learned a lot more since yesterday and I’m sure that will continue tomorrow with Sebastian. I think we’ve put the car in a good position for him and hopefully he’ll be able to push on from there. If you ask me where I think we are compared to this time last year, I’d say we’re in a better position, but of course a lot of that is down to a lack of regulation changes.”

Race Engineering Co-ordinator Andy Damerum added: “After a good start yesterday, I’d say we had an even more productive day today. We were able to get through most of the items on our agenda and focused on general car set-up work and aero-tests. We also managed to get through some background tests as well – making sure that everything is working as it should. The weather was ideal and, although the wind picked up in the afternoon, it didn’t upset anything. I think Mark can be pleased with his first days with the RB9. We now have a lot of data to get through and some preparation work to get the car ready for Sebastian’s first day in the car tomorrow.”

Jerez test - day two

Driver: Mark Webber
Car: RB9
Laps: 101 laps
Best time: 1:19.338
Circuit length: 4.428km
Fastest lap: R. Grosjean (1:18.218)

Red Bull Racing