Vitaly Petrov has admitted he was relieved to be given a chance with Caterham this season after spending the winter without a drive.
Russian admits difficult winter without drive secured in F1
Vitaly Petrov has admitted he was relieved to be given a chance with Caterham this season after spending the winter without a drive.
The Russian was dropped by Renualt (now Lotus) after publicly criticising the team at the end of the 2011 season.
But after a winter spent on the sidelines he was given a late reprieve when he replaced veteran Jarno Trulli at Caterham, despite the Italian driving for the team during the first test in Jerez.
"It was obviously a pretty tough winter. It would be the same for anyone who wasn't sure what their job would be in the New Year," Petrov told the official
Formula One website.
"But even though it was difficult at times, I never lost the belief that it would come good and that's what has happened. As soon as we knew the situation with Renault we started working on a solution.
"And Caterham were always the best option, and the one that I saw most potential in, so it's been really good to get the situation sorted out. I'm not so much relieved but happy to be in my new team."
Experience
The British-based outfit are looking to break into the midfield this season and the 27-year-old feels his experience can bring a lot to the team.
"There are a few obvious things, like the fact I've used KERS last year and I have been with a bigger team," Petrov added.
"I know how they work and can help see areas where Caterham can grow.
"I know that I have developed a lot over the last two years and my first podium last year was another big step for me.
"So I think the team knows they have someone who can grow with them and help them develop."
Russia GP
With Russia scheduled to host a Grand Prix in 2014 around the Sochi Winter Olympic Park, Petrov is now hoping to be able to contest his home race.
He added: "I think it's impossible to have a Russian GP without a Russian driver! It is one of the biggest motivations for me - to make sure I'm on the grid in 2014. It must be the same for any athlete in any sport.
"To be able to compete at home means everything to you and it's important to me that I'm there and in a car that I can really compete in."
As for 2012, the Russian is remaining realistic about what Caterham can achieve as they embark on a new chapter in the team's history.
"The team is being pretty cautious about what we want to do this year, so I think the main thing for me is to do the best I can and help them fight a couple of the teams in front."
