Horner upset Webber kept shoulder injury secret

Christian Horner has revealed his “disappointment and frustration” at the news Mark Webber kept secret a fractured shoulder.

A new official book published by the Australian admitted Webber used injections to drive through the pain of the injury sustained whilst mountain bike riding prior to October’s Japanese grand prix.

Red Bull team boss Horner told London’s Telegraph he felt “disappointment and frustration” to hear about the injury for the first time late on Monday.

“I didn’t even know about the book, let alone the shoulder,” the Briton said.

The reports on Monday said only FIA doctor Gary Hartstein and Webber’s trainer Roger Cleary knew about the injury.

“It is obviously disappointing that Mark said nothing,” admitted Horner.  “It was an injury that did not appear to have any effect on his performance but all the same it would have been nice to know about it.”

Given the mountain bike crash in the 2009 pre-season that left Webber with a broken leg and shoulder, Horner indicated that the 34-year-old should stay off two wheels.

“Our drivers have an obligation to make sure they are fit,” he said.  “It seems bikes don’t agree with Mark so maybe it would be better if he stayed away from them.”

Horner was speaking as he collected a Gold Star on Webber’s behalf at the British Racing Drivers’ Club awards ceremony in London.
 © RIF | GMM