Nigel Mansell, Jean Alesi back Renault’s Vitaly Petrov to win a race in 2011 season – Formula 1
Former Formula 1 drivers Nigel Mansell and Jean Alesi have backed Renault’s Vitaly Petrov to win a race in the 2011 Formula 1 season.
Alesi stated that Petrov’s podium position finish in the season opener Australian Grand Prix was not a fluke and was by pure talent and some brilliant driving.
On the other hand, Mansell added that the young Russian driver has done a remarkable job in the 2011 season despite starting the season under a lot of stress from the team. He also stated that Petrov is driving well against the likes of Red Bull, Ferrari
and McLaren.
Vitaly Petrov started the 2011 Formula 1 season on a high for the Renault team when he finished third in the very first encounter in Australia.
After the leading Renault driver Robert Kubica injured himself in a local rally championship in Italy, Renault hired German Nick Heidfeld to replace the injured Pole.
Sit believed that the experienced German, also called Quick Nick, will lead the Renault team and Petrov will be team’s second driver. This was not the case as the Russian draw first blood and scored points in the very first race.
Alesi now says that Petrov is in line to win a race. “Straightaway this year, we have been very impressed. Straightaway he was on the podium and he surprised everybody. The position he took in Melbourne was not by luck. This podium was achieved by his own
ability,” he said.
Mansell added, “Vitaly has done a fantastic job under a lot of duress this year, I can see great things from him, going up against big names like Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull. Don't be surprised if he doesn't surprise himself and win a race this year. That
would be fantastic.”
Nevertheless, the season continues in Valencia on June 26, 2011 and a win from Petrov might be possible. Let’s see how it goes.
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