Dietrich Mateschitz has all but confirmed that Mark Webber is staying with the Red Bull team in 2012.
There has been intense speculation about next year’s occupant of the seat alongside Sebastian Vettel, but team owner Mateschitz hinted strongly that the nominated driver will be a 34-year-old Australian.
"In theory it’s still open, but it (Webber being re-signed) is probable. It’s just not confirmed yet," the Austrian billionaire told Kronen Zeitung.
Mateschitz said the speculation began because Webber was not sure if he wanted to stay.
"But in the early summer, he (Webber) said ’Definitely, I feel good, fast and strong. I will hang around for another year.’"
Webber is believed to have confirmed the news on Australian television after winning pole position for Sunday’s British grand prix.