‘Lighter’ Red Bull awaits Webber for Melbourne

A lighter chassis is awaiting Mark Webber for when F1 track action resumes late next week in Melbourne.

The Australian, already in the southern city ahead of his ninth home race, told local media: “I was talking to my mechanics last night and they have got a brand new car for me.

“I have got a new chassis for this event, it’s even lighter, making sure we make even more progress to go towards the front,” 33-year-old Webber said.

His Red Bull teammate, Sebastian Vettel, set pole and was leading the season opening Bahrain grand prix last weekend when a spark plug glitch hit.

Webber made crucial mistakes in qualifying and was then a victim of the processional race to finish just eighth.

Meanwhile, he welcomed news that a 107 per cent qualifying rule is likely to return in 2011.

“I think it’s a good rule to get the ceiling of quality and preparation at the right level,” said Webber.

© RIF|GMM