Webber criticizes Ferrari fans for jeering Vettel

Red Bull driver Mark Webber. Photo / AP

After winning the first Italian Grand Prix podium place of his career in his last European race, Mark Webber took a parting shot at Ferrari fans for jeering race winner and Red Bull teammate Sebastian Vettel.

The 37-year-old Webber, who finished third behind Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, is retiring from Formula One at the end of the season to race for German manufacturer Porsche.

Given his often tense relationship with Vettel at Red Bull over the years, this was a rare show of support as he criticized the Ferrari "tifosi" who booed loudly when Vettel made his podium speech.

"I'm very happy to get a podium at Monza, one of the most famous ones in the world, up there with Monte Carlo and a few other signature events. Brilliant to experience that," Webber said. "Sebastian won the race and the atmosphere was not completely correct. But, anyway, it's their choice."

Vettel's rift with Webber was re-opened when he defied team orders and overtook the Australian at the Malaysian GP in March.

But Vettel seemed less concerned about the jeers than Webber.

"The more booing we get the better we've done today," Vettel said. "I don't blame the people to be honest, it's in their genes. They love Ferrari."

Webber's previous best finish at Monza was sixth place in 2010, also with Red Bull.

"It was good. We had a team weekend from start to finish, and then (fought) for the top position," Webber said. "Both Sebastian and I, compared to the Ferraris, were not that strong off the (start) line."

Webber went from third on the grid behind Ferrari's Felipe Massa, and lost his place to the Brazilian before reclaiming it and then chasing down Alonso.

"Got the job done against Felipe and it was a good battle with Fernando. Tried everything," Webber said. "We pushed as hard as we could and I'm satisfied with today's result."

Although Webber has only seven races left in his F1 career, the reality that it is coming to an end has yet to hit home.

"I think Brazil will probably be a little bit more emotional of course, but if I've got the tissues out then I've made the wrong decision," said Webber, who has won nine career races. "I'm not retiring (altogether). I'm stopping from Formula One but of course there are a lot of people that can come and watch me in the Porsche next year, at Le Mans and some other races."