Vitaly Petrov will become the first Russian to compete in Formula One after being confirmed as Renault’s second driver for the 2010 season.

The 25-year-old has signed a one-year contract with the French team and will partner Robert Kubica during the upcoming campaign.

“I’m really happy. It’s brilliant, what I’ve waited a long time for,” said Petrov, who has competed in GP2 since 2006.

“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.”

Renault also have the option to retain Petrov for a further two years and team principal Eric Boullier added: “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.

“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.”

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