But with the team's policy of driver equality so far lasting ten races in 2009, the 32-year-old Australian insists his boss Christian Horner still should not nominate a 'number 1' for the remaining six grands prix until the title finale in November.

As Vettel, 22, retired in Budapest, Webber's third place meant he leapfrogged the 22-year-old German in the drivers' standings and is now staring down an 18.5 point deficit to Brawn's struggling Button.

The gap between the RBR teammates is 4.5 points.

But Webber insists he will not yet be asking Horner to reverse the standing policy of driver equality at Red Bull.

"No, I think it is still a bit early," he answered.  "Sebastian had a bit of a tough weekend but he will be back and after the break we can recharge and take the fight again."