Jaguar extends deal with Webber

Jaguar had been keen to resign the driver for next year after his impressive early season showings, the highlight of which came when Webber qualified third on the grid for the Brazilian Grand Prix.

"I hope that, by making this announcement so early in the season, people will realise just how serious both our intentions are to firmly establish Jaguar's place in Formula 1," said Webber. "We know it's not going to happen overnight, so I'm very happy that we've made this commitment now and can continue the hard work we've already started this year.

"For me personally and as a driver, I'm very excited by the prospect of being involved in what is a long-term objective, and to see our goals being realised as we make further progress over the next two years."

David Pitchforth, Jaguar's managing director, said: "Mark is an outstanding talent and everyone at Jaguar Racing is naturally delighted that the partnership will extend to the end of the 2005 season. Mark's start to the season has been very impressive and his approach to racing is very professional - both inside and outside the cockpit - and we see Mark as an integral part of our long-term development."