Webber can't help Pizzonia

Mark Webber is sympathetic to the plight of Jaguar team-mate Antonio Pizzonia but is not about to give the Brazilian a helping hand. Pizzonia's position at Jaguar is under review after his poor start to the season and although the team is trying to give him some leeway, if Pizzonia doesn't improve he may be out of a drive.

Mark Webber.

Photo by Mark Gledhill.

"I feel sorry for Antonio but, at this level, there's no way you can start helping another driver. This is not Formula Ford," Webber told the British press. "You have to stand on your own two feet. In this game you fight the war with the soldiers you've got because no one wants excuses."

Former Williams test driver Pizzonia has been outclassed by Webber in the four races so far in 2003 and Jaguar is alarmed at the difference in performance between the two. Pizzonia has been undergoing intensive testing in order to raise his game for the Spanish Grand Prix in a week's time and Webber thinks his team-mate can make the grade.

"My road to get here has been pretty rocky but the hard times toughen you up," the Australian said. "A lot of drivers think they have worked hard to get into Formula One but they haven't. And once you are in, you have to make sure you don't leave a stone unturned and keep pushing yourself. It makes you realise you can't get too cocky and blas? about it all."

"Testing is one thing but, on the big day, you have to perform. I think Antonio can turn things around because he has been quick during a Grand Prix weekend but it's been in the wrong sessions."