Mark Webber won the world endurance championship over the weekend. This is a great achievement for a driver who never quite reached his goals in Formula One, and his victory gives us a chance to reflect on Webber’s F1 career.
In the early days of his career, his car was not as reliable as the Red Bull he would later drive. Often he was making up the numbers, finishing in the minor points, or not finishing at all.
Webber’s career highlight came when he finished third in the 2010 driver’s championship, in contention right to the final race. But on the final day he could not deliver.
Webber’s Formula One career ended poorly. Most telling was the head-to-head statistics with teammate Sebastian Vettel. In his final 30 races, he only finished ahead of Vettel twice. The German finished in front of Webber 27 times, with both failing to finish in one of those races.
It was a statistic that would drive Webber into Formula One retirement.
However, Webber has succeeded in a different ‘code’ of the same sport, becoming a world champion.
The only thing left is a phone call from Vettel to say “Well done Mark”.
But it’s hard to imagine Webber waiting by his phone.
Lano
Roar Guru
A trifle short on depth, like Dale D says.
Dale D
Guest
Wow. Seriously comprehensive article. "The only thing left is a phone call from Vettel to say “Well done Mark”. But it’s hard to imagine Webber waiting by his phone." My guess is that this exchange has already taken place. Despite what some fans might wish to believe, Mark and Seb both have a self-proclaimed mutual respect for each other, with the relationship being stronger as of late.
Mike from Tari
Guest
Good to see you were in the inner-sanction at Red bull.