Petrov, derided as a pay book driver during his rookie season, showed up his critics with a faultless drive to finish behind Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton at Albert Park. His P3 also sees him enter the record books as the first Russian to claim a podium.
"I am happy to be here sitting with these guys [Vettel and Hamilton]," Petrov said at the post-race press conference.
"All weekend was pretty good but after that we didn't know where we are. Coming here we had some new parts and from Friday practice our car looked very strong, and qualifying was not too bad.
"Then we focused on our race, and today did everything perfectly and we must be proud of our place today.
" The 26-year-old Petrov started sixth on the grid but he got off to a superb start and was up to P3 after the first two corners.
"The start was not bad and I tried to attack Fernando and then saw Jenson Button in front, so why brake earlier?" he said.
"I eased the brake and tried to pass both of them which was great.
" What will be pleasing for Petrov is the fact that he beat team-mate Nick Heidfeld, who was installed as Renault leader after Robert Kubica was ruled out for most of the season following a serious rally accident.
When asked if the result shows that he can lead the team, Petrov said: "I think I don't need to answer anything, you can see it also. But yes!"
Source: Planet-F1
