Williams likely to retain driver line-up

Webber has impressed with his determined drives for Williams in 2006, having endured mixed fortunes last year, although poor reliability has left him without a podium finish.

But with Williams having until the start of August to decide on Webber's future, thanks to an option on his contract that is due to expire prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix, the team have indicated that they are likely to keep him on board.

Technical director Sam Michael said: "The driver decision will be Frank's, but the most likely thing is to continue with the two drivers we have for next year.

"All the options are in Williams' favour as things go. Frank will make his choice when the time is right. I can't see anything else he'd do."

Webber has also been linked with a switch to Renault next season, if the French car manufacturer fails in its quest to sign Kimi Raikkonen as teammate to Giancarlo Fisichella.

Should the Australian move teams, then one possibility is for Williams to take Juan Pablo Montoya, who is believed to have offered his services cheaply in a bid to remain in F1.