04/07/2012
NEWS STORY
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Christian Horner has moved to end speculation over world champion Sebastian Vettel's future. Speaking in the build-up to this weekend's British Grand Prix, the Red Bull boss - seen here checking out the latest internet speculation with the driver – says he confident the German will remain with the Milton Keynes squad for the foreseeable future.
"Sebastian is very comfortable in the team, the team is very comfortable with Sebastian," Horner told Reuters. "He's been with Red Bull for over 12 years now and I think he will be with us for quite a few years to come.
"I have no concern over Sebastian and where he will be in 2013, 2014 or beyond."
Linked with a move to Ferrari, speculation from some corners suggested the 24-year-old has already signed a deal to take him to Maranello in 2014. Red Bull's other driver, Mark Webber, has been strongly linked with the same move for 2013.
Horner shrugged off the notion. "I think most of our team has been going to Ferrari at some point this year, whether it be Adrian (Newey), Mark, Sebastian, even myself at one stage was supposed to be going.
"I have spoken with Sebastian about it and he's made it quite clear that he hasn't had any dialogue and hasn't signed anything with Ferrari. The rumour mill will always continue," he added.
"I don't think Ferrari is a must for him. He's very happy where he is, achieving great results where he is and he's focused on trying to achieve a lot more."
However, Horner was less assertive when discussing Webber, choosing instead to focus on the Australian's performance this year. "Mark's doing a great job. I think he's driven extremely well this year, his consistency has been strong... he's enjoying his driving again and I think they are a strong pairing.
"They drive the car in a similar manner and it's important for us to have two drivers who push each other to get the best out of each other.
Many believe Webber has already signed a preliminary contract with Ferrari, with a number of clauses allowing either side to opt out if various conditions aren't met. The rumours have been scoffed at by the Webber and Red Bull camps respectively, though speculation has continued nonetheless.
That Horner failed to categorically dismiss those suggestions seems likely to fuel speculation over the Australian's future - Horner's assertions that contract negotiations were on the horizon unlikely to douse the flames entirely.
"I'm sure over the next few weeks we'll sit down and talk about the future with Mark," he said.