Petrov Names Contenders for Kubica's Renault Seat

Vitaly Petrov gave the media a few hints on who to expect at the wheel of the Renault R31 in 2011, should Renault decide to replace injured Robert Kubica with a driver from outside the team. Although it was initially believed that Bruno Senna would step in alongside the Russian sophomore, team boss Eric Boullier admitted in a recent interview that an experienced driver is needed in order to ensure a successful campaign in 2011.

During his recent visit to the Santa Corona hospital in Italy, Petrov issued some interesting names to the media, one of which is the very aforementioned Senna. The other two names have been speculated by the media in recent days, namely Force India's Vitantonio Liuzzi and former BMW Sauber driver Nick Heidfeld, both without a commitment in F1 for 2011.

Additionally, Petrov shared some info from within the hospital room, where he and his teammate had some catching up to do regarding the team's plans for the new season.

“We were with him for about a quarter of an hour. We joked and found him very well,” said Kubica, according to ivg.it. “Of course he immediately wanted to know the team schedules for the season. Meanwhile we will look for his replacement. The team is close to Robert and we are waiting with open arms and hoping he can return by the end of the season.”

Earlier today it was confirmed that Kubica will undergo a second surgery on Thursday, in order to stabilize his right shoulder and foot. If that becomes successful, an additional operation will take place in a few days time, on his elbow. In all, the Pole will spend approximately 3 more weeks in the hospital.