Vitaly Petrov recently landed a two-year contract with Renault © Getty Images Enlarge Related Links Drivers:

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Vitaly Petrov has been told by Russia's prime minister Vladimir Putin that he can continue to rely on the financial support of his home country.

Pertov signed a new two-year contract with Renault before Christmas but is still bringing money to the team as part of the deal. Last year Petrov brought state-run car company Lada to the team as a sponsor and for 2011 his management have secured a deal with the state-owned technology company Rostekhnologii.

Putin oversaw a meeting with Petrov's manager Oksana Kosachenko and heads of leading Russian companies to put together a new sponsorship package.

"The number of automobile sport lovers in Russia increases day by day," Putin is quoted by AFP. "Petrov, who is very famous among Formula One fans here, has recently signed a new two-year contract with his team. He definitely needs support. Financial support most of all."