According to Russian press, a shock switch to the Marussia team in 2012 might be an option as Vitaly Petrov looks to rescue his F1 career. The French website Toile F1 also claims that Romain Grosjean, currently a reserve driver at Lotus-Renault GP, is close to signing a contract with the team.

Lotus is reviewing its options after signing Kimi Raikkonen for 2012, with Petrov one of many candidates for the second seat alongside others including Romain Grosjean, Bruno Senna and Adrian Sutil.

However, when asked for comment by Russia Today, Petrov's manager Oskana Kosachenko would not confirm or deny the news other than to say "the French media is always good at supporting their countrymen". Kosachenko reportedly was at the Lotus-Renault headquarters on Tuesday evening having negotiations over Petrov’s future with the team.

The report by Russia Today went on to say the Virgin team, assuming the official name of its Russian supercar partner Marussia from 2012, is a possible alternative for Petrov.

Marussia may be a possibility for Petrov due to his Russian connections and the sponsorship deal he would bring to the team. However, the team has already confirmed Timo Glock alongside French newcomer Charles Pic.