Petrov’s podium… a gold mine for Lotus Renault?

When asked about the consequences of such a result for the team, Lopez almost speaks Russian:

Genii Capital and Mangrove Capital Partners have been close to Russia for a long time. When Petrov entered Formula 1, we had two important tasks. The first was to make him a complete driver in a matter of months. In the absence of mid-season testing and faced with the pressure of racing at the highest level, his progress has been remarkable.

The second task was “to initiate” Russia to Formula 1. This required a lot of teaching, a whole culture of the sport to explain. I am happy to say that these efforts have been successful. Very few people had an idea of this sport when Vitaly Petrov arrived on the starting grid. Last season, TV audiences in Russia doubled in eight months. It’s more than encouraging!

As a result, new sponsors could soon appear on the R31.

Some Russian companies are already important partners of Lotus Renault GP this year. I believe they are delighted with the opportunities and visibility offered by our platform. I am sure that Vitaly’s performance in Melbourne will attract even more new partners, especially since his result does not appear as a one-time stroke of luck. I am resolutely optimistic.

Gérard Lopez therefore has reason to congratulate his Russian driver. He even speaks of a first-class performance! He doesn’t forget Nick Heidfeld either, who replaced Robert Kubica after his serious accident at the beginning of the year.

«He didn’t make a single mistake all weekend, which is his top priority for the season. His podium is not the result of chance circumstances: he beat the Ferraris and a Red Bull without a hitch. Nick was unlucky; his car was severely damaged on the first lap. But he is strong. »