Kovalainen linked to Marussia seat as Petrov ruled out
Heikki Kovalainen has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Luiz Razia at Marussia for the 2013 Formula One season, while Vitaly Petrov is not in contention.
Heikki Kovalainen has become the surprise frontrunner to take Luiz Razia’s seat at Marussia for the 2013 Formula One season, following reports of Razia’s sponsorship difficulties. Vitaly Petrov, previously linked to the drive, is not in contention according to statements from his management.
The situation developed after Razia’s expected debut with Marussia was thrown into doubt by delayed sponsor payments. Several sources reported that Kovalainen, who lost his Caterham seat at the end of 2012, has held discussions with Marussia about partnering Max Chilton. Finnish broadcaster MTV3 cited multiple sources confirming that talks had taken place, and British media reported Kovalainen had already visited the team’s factory for a seat fitting.
Why Kovalainen is in the frame
Kovalainen, 31, was left without a drive after Caterham opted for a new line-up. According to reports, he is willing to race for Marussia without a salary in order to stay on the grid. With Razia’s position uncertain, Marussia has looked at alternatives who can bring experience without requiring a major financial commitment.
There were suggestions that Kovalainen could test the Marussia MR02 during the final pre-season session in Barcelona. While nothing had been confirmed by the team, Marussia sporting director Graeme Lowdon said any change would be made in the team’s best interests.
Petrov’s F1 return ruled out
Speculation around a possible Russian pairing at Marussia increased after Vitaly Petrov’s manager, Oksana Kosachenko, was seen at the Barcelona paddock. However, Kosachenko confirmed to Russian media that Petrov would not be returning to Formula One in 2013. She also noted the reduction in Russian personnel at the team, with only the owners and licence holders remaining involved.
Other names, including Narain Karthikeyan and Jules Bianchi, were also mentioned as possible contenders for the seat, but the strongest links remained with Kovalainen. Marussia had not made a final announcement at the time, but Razia’s absence from testing and the team’s search for a replacement pointed to a decision being imminent.
What it means for Marussia’s 2013 line-up
If confirmed, Kovalainen’s arrival would give Marussia an experienced driver alongside rookie Max Chilton. This could prove valuable for a team aiming to move up the grid after finishing behind Caterham in 2012. The team’s technical package for 2013, the Cosworth-powered MR02, would benefit from Kovalainen’s feedback, particularly with limited pre-season running due to the driver situation.
- Kovalainen: 109 Grand Prix starts, last raced for Caterham in 2012
- Max Chilton: F1 rookie in 2013
- Marussia MR02: Cosworth-powered, 2013 challenger
