Red Bull give Webber a shot in the arm

[davewilson]

Mark Webber has put the boot into former team Williams, where he claims his career took "a setback".

The Australian has been revitalised since joining Red Bull Racing after two unhappy years with Williams.

• Coulthard raring to go says Red Bull boss


The team did give the 30-year-old his only podium in the 2005 Monaco Grand Prix, but that was one of few highlights.

Webber suffered 11 retirements last year as the car endured many problems, prompting a move to Red Bull.

Webber claims he is glad to be rid of Williams' regimented ways and is now experiencing a more relaxed environment with Red Bull alongside team-mate David Coulthard.

"After being used to the very different way Williams operated, it's been a case of relearning some of my people skills," said Webber.

"I'd forgotten what it was like to have this level of freedom and to actually be able to enjoy what I'm doing."

With hindsight, Webber regrets joining the Grove team, even though it was his decision as he over-ruled manager Flavio Briatore at the time.

"As everyone knows, I was the one pushing for a Williams drive at the end of 2004, whereas Flavio had always been very much against it," added Webber on www.formula1.com.

"This time I've listened to him. He has far better vision about where Formula One will be a few years down the road than anyone else I know.

"So, yes my career took a setback with Williams, but I'm not anticipating a second one with Red Bull.

"I am certain Red Bull will have by far the strongest season this team have ever had in all their various guises.

"But I think 2008 will be the year when we can really look for results.

"But then Formula One is so unpredictable, so why not have a lucky day like Monaco last year (when Coulthard finished third)."

The Stig

[Dare]

   I like Mark,but he's been in f1 for a few years
   and he had to know a little about how the team
   operated,Why not just part ways and move on!

[cosworth151]

I've always like Webber. I think a lot of the people he worked with in his Jaguar days are still there, so it has probably been something of a homecomming to him.