Mark Webber

Mark Webber is an Australian former Formula One driver. He made his Formula One debut at his home race, the Australian Grand Prix in 2002. A nine-time Grand Prix winner and FIA World Endurance Champion, Webber is arguably one of motorsport’s most popular and high-profile stars who despite the glamorous trappings and lifestyle of Formula One has stayed true to his laid-back Aussie roots and traditions. His no-nonsense, straight-talking personality combined with his strong sense of sportsmanship and fair play have endeared him to fans the world over, and he remains a top-drawer attraction for media and sponsors.

Throughout his 12 years in Formula One, Webber notched up 215 races, nine victories – most notably becoming a double winner of both the prestigious Monaco and British Grands Prix – and accumulated an impressive tally of 42 podium finishes, 13 pole positions, and 19 fastest laps. He also helped Red Bull Racing to four consecutive Constructors’ World Championships.

At the end of 2013, Webber hung up his Formula One boots and after a 15-year hiatus, rejoined sports-car racing as part of Porsche’s return to the LMP1 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2014. Porsche was also returning to the category after a long break and they immediately impressed with the debut of the Porsche 919 Hybrid car. Webber and his teammates, Brendon Hartley and Timo Bernhard built a strong relationship over three seasons and together they amassed 14 podiums (eight of them victories) helped Porsche to the World Manufacturers Title twice and became World Drivers’ Champions in 2015 – making him the first Aussie FIA World Champion since Alan Jones in 1980.

Webber decided the time was right for him to retire from racing at the end of the 2016 WEC season. His relationship with Porsche remains strong, however, as he stepped out of the cockpit and into a special representative role with the famous marque.

At the end of 2015, Webber’s long-anticipated autobiography "Aussie Grit" was published. A project that started back in 2009, it was a true trip down memory lane to bring his journey together. "Aussie Grit" covers everything from his early days at home in Queanbeyan, through to his ultimate success as a Grand Prix winner and global sports personality via the many highs and lows along the way. Webber's story has since become an international best-seller.

Webber began to delve into the world of punditry in 2014 with Network Ten in Australia and in 2016 he joined the Channel 4 commentary team as they took over the UK terrestrial Formula One rights from the BBC