Vitaly Petrov, full-time driver for the Renault F1 Team in 2010

Renault F1 Team is pleased to announce that Vitaly Petrov will drive for the team alongside Robert Kubica in 2010.

The young 25-year-old driver is the first Russian Formula 1 driver. He joins the Renault F1 Team with significant experience in GP2 Series, having finished the 2009 season as vice-champion.

Eric Boullier, Team Principal of the Renault F1 Team, comments: « It’s a very special day for Vitaly and we are happy to welcome him to the team. As a young rookie, we know Vitaly has a lot to learn but his performances in the GP2 series last year were solid, which confirmed that he was ready for Formula One. Robert is a good role model for him and I am sure that his results will be in line with what he has already demonstrated throughout his career. »

Vitaly Petrov adds: « This appointment is a great opportunity for me and I am really looking forward to working with the team this season. I have always dreamed of becoming a Formula One driver and making my debut in the top discipline with a great team like Renault is very exciting. The first race will take place in a little over a month, so I want to spend as much time as possible with the team in the coming weeks to be ready for Bahrain. »

According to a statement from Renault F1 Team