Stoddart had first option on his fellow Australian’s services for 2003 but will let Webber decide his own future. The 26-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to Jaguar, while Toyota and even Jordan are rumoured to be interested too.

But Stoddart has made it clear that if nothing materialises, he will welcome Webber back with open arms.

He told Reuters: "I've released Mark from his contract so he's a free agent.

"If he gets a better drive then good luck to him and I do genuinely mean that and I wish him well. If he doesn't, then there is a guaranteed seat for him next season.

"He's in a perfect position. He's under no pressure. Mark would be my number one choice of driver for next year if he does not get something better."

Stoddart, who is expected to secure a Cosworth customer deal for 2003, is still undecided on his driver line-up but said his dream combination would be Webber and ex-Arrows star Jos Verstappen.

He said: "As it stands today I cannot tell you who either of my drivers are going to be next year.

"I would hope that it would be a combination of Webber and Verstappen. But it could be a combination of anyone. We did a list the other day of 20 drivers.

"Rest assured there will be two good drivers."

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