Vitaly Petrov is currently being left out of talks about being Robert Kubica’s Renault teammate in 2011.<\/p>\n
Despite being initially labelled little more than a pay-driver, the Russian rookie has been a solid performer this season.<\/p>\n
But the Enstone based team’s management, targeting a return to the top of the podium in the wake of the crashgate scandal and change of ownership, is openly contemplating its options for next year.<\/p>\n
Asked about 2011, Petrov said at an F1 demonstration event alongside Jenson Button in Moscow at the weekend: “Next year is in hand, the talks will be held later.”<\/p>\n
Several experienced drivers are reportedly being considered for Petrov’s seat, including Kimi Raikkonen, Nick Heidfeld, Heikki Kovalainen, Christian Klien and Adrian Sutil.<\/p>\n
Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport said Sauber rookie Kamui Kobayashi is also on the list.<\/p>\n
“Some are fanciful, others are realistic because there are already discussions,” boss Eric Boullier is quoted by France’s Auto Hebdo when asked about the reported candidates.<\/p>\n
Boullier had said Sebastien Buemi was also on the list, but Toro Rosso has now confirmed him for 2011, even though the Swiss youngster was not initially told.<\/p>\n
Switzerland’s Sonntagsblick newspaper explained the discrepancy by revealing that Toro Rosso had the right to retain Buemi due to his ongoing Red Bull contract.<\/p>\n
And the 21-year-old is now quoted as saying he is “very happy” to be staying at the Faenza based team.<\/p>\n
Italy’s Autosprint is also linking Timo Glock with the Renault seat, even though Virgin’s Nick Wirth said the struggling British team wants to retain the German.<\/p>\n
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