As rumors circulate about Webber potentially signing with Porsche for their Le Mans venture, indications are mounting that Sebastian Vettel will acquire a new teammate for the 2014 season.
Initially, Kimi Raikkonen appeared to be the frontrunner, yet Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s driver manager, maintains that he is “in no hurry” to finalize a choice.
“Numerous drivers are eager to join Red Bull, and we are fortunate to have two exceptional juniors,” he remarked at the Red Bull Ring circuit located in Spielberg, Austria.
“I’m confident that we will end up with two top drivers,” he stated.
The “two exceptional juniors” Marko mentions refer to the Toro Rosso pair of Ricciardo, who is 23, and Jean-Eric Vergne, also in his twenties.
“Overall, we are pleased with both drivers,” Marko commented. “Currently, Ricciardo is the stronger of the two. Vergne tends to be overly aggressive, pushing these delicate tires too hard during qualifying.”
Similar to team owner Dietrich Mateschitz, Marko does not completely dismiss the possibility of re-signing Webber for the 2014 season.
He refuted claims that the relationship between the 36-year-old and Vettel has become unmanageable, affirming that while there is tension, it stems from their status as “alpha dogs.”
“They collaborate effectively, and that’s sufficient,” Marko explained.
“As long as that remains the case, we need not worry. They have never been the best of friends, but they maintain a functional working relationship.”
Meanwhile, Ricciardo is determined to sway Marko’s upcoming decision, expected around summertime.
“Well, my seventh place finish in Shanghai certainly didn’t hurt my chances,” Ricciardo noted.
“However, I understand that I must do more if I want a solid opportunity to secure the seat at Red Bull.
“I need to prove that my performance wasn’t merely a one-off,” he added.
He acknowledged the high stakes and pressure involved.
“I view it as motivation rather than a burden,” said the driver from Perth. “My aim is to earn the promotion, and I recognize that there are significant expectations placed upon me.
“It’s my responsibility to deliver results.”