Mark Webber is optimistic that he can put strong results on the board this season despite his somewhat lacklustre 2011 campaign.
The 35-year-old’s sixth year with Red Bull Racing will officially get underway this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
Webber won just one race last year while his now two-time champion team-mate Sebastian Vettel dominated.
Speaking at a press event on Melbourne’s St Kilda Beach, Webber said that he is looking forward to getting down to racing this weekend.
“We have a sensational season ahead of us,” said Webber.
“There is no guarantee, but I feel there are going to be some really, really good moments this year.
“There will be some headwinds, that is normal, and over a long season things can happen to the drivers where we have to deal with adversity here and there.
“That is part of competing at this level and any top sport, but I am bloody excited about the whole season and looking forward to doing some fantastic results.”
Webber’s optimism is shared by team principal Christian Horner, who recently said that the Australian’s pre-season has been considerably more positive than it was last year.
“I think Mark has had a good winter,” said Horner.
“I think he has a good pre-season and I think he goes to Melbourne with a spring in his step – which wasn’t the case last year.
“He is in a good frame of mind and hopefully he can have a strong season.”
See below for Speedcafe.com’s Race Guide for this weekend’s Qantas Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix