“We did have some other opportunities but what I was very keen about Jaguar was that they did come quite early and were pushing very hard to try to get a deal together for the future,” said Webber.

“To have a two-year deal locked away is something that was very attractive to me. The potential here is very, very good to grow together.

“We signed the deal off not too long ago but the decision was made fairly early that this was the route to go for me personally.”

But Webber admits he will be under immense pressure to perform for the Milton Keynes outfit, particularly when he makes his debut for them in the season opener in Australia on March 9.

“This is a great opportunity for me but I am a realistic guy,” added the former Benetton test driver. “I want to do the best that I can and it’s a big race in Melbourne.

“It is the big race for me, as the German Grand Prix is for Michael Schumacher, so I’m looking forward to it.

“But it’s also another grand prix for me. There’s pressure every weekend, it’s a tough industry and I’ve got to step up to the plate week in, week out.”

Webber and Brazilian rookie Antonio Pizzonia, who replaced Eddie Irvine and Pedro de la Rosa, will get their first test as Jaguar drivers when testing resumes in Barcelona on Tuesday.