Vitaly Petrov will become the first Russian to compete in Formula One after being unveiled as Renault's second driver.
New-look team reveal R30 at Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia
Vitaly Petrov will this season become the first Russian to compete in Formula One after being confirmed as Renault's second driver.
The 25-year-old from Vyborg was unveiled by the team, along with their new challenger, the R30, at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia on Sunday.
Petrov, who has competed in GP2 since 2006, has signed a one-year contract to partner Robert Kubica with an option for a further two years.
His father Aleksander is providing full financial support, which has been confirmed as seven per cent of Renault's budget - estimated at £13million.
Big explosion
"I'm really happy. It's brilliant, what I've waited for for a long time," said a delighted Petrov.
"A couple of days ago the team made their decision, and I signed a contract this morning, so I am very happy. Have you seen my face?
"With this news there's been a big explosion in Russia, on TV and in the newspapers, and people have been calling, asking me about it, and I've had to switch off my phone.
"I now need to concentrate on my job because this is something new to me, and I hope it will be good.
"But the people in Russia, they must wake up to what has happened here because we are in F1 without any sponsorship and any help.
"My father has given me the money to be here. It's just him, my manager and my father's friends. No-one else. But now people will see us in Formula One and hopefully it will change things."
Patience
New team principal Eric Boullier knows that he will have to be patient with his rookie driver but believes he is ready to make the step up from GP2.
"As a rookie, we recognise that Vitaly will have a lot to learn this season, but his performances in GP2 last year were outstanding and confirmed that he is ready to make the step up to Formula One," he said.
"With Robert alongside him, Vitaly has the perfect role model to learn from and I'm confident he will deliver on the promise he has shown throughout his career."
Renault, who will be back in their vintage black and yellow colours this year, are now predominantly owned by Genii Capital, a Luxembourg-based private investment firm who completed a buy-out in early December.
