Korean GP: Webber says race a tyre-conservation exercise

Webber lost the lead off the line and then settled in behind the sister Red Bull for the rest of the race.

With Red Bull urging both drivers to be careful with their front tyres, Webber said there was little more he could do once Vettel was in front.

"We had to manage the tyres, look after them but go as quick as we could," he said. "I tried to keep some pressure on him. That is the way it is these days, you have to look after the black things on the corners. It's still a very solid result."

Webber acknowledged that his "mediocre" first few corners had been costly.

"The initial launch wasn't good, then the first part kicked to wheelspin, and I knew I could have some issues," he said.

"It was a very mediocre run to the first corner. All wasn't lost - I got the slipstream on the back straight and it was still possible to get something there. After that, I hit a brick wall with everyone coming behind."

The Australian's second place was his first podium finish since Silverstone, but Webber admitted it was hard to get over-excited about second.

"Today was a good result but mixed emotions," he said. "Second is a big difference to first. I had good points and champagne, but not what I was after."