2009

Struggles to match McLaren team mate Hamilton with five retirements and nine points from first ten races. As MP4-24 improves, so do results, with second on the grid and fourth place in Valencia a highlight. Twelfth overall in standings, 27 points behind Hamilton. Moves to new Lotus team for 2010.

2008

Switches to McLaren where he is largely overshadowed by team mate Lewis Hamilton. Nevertheless, takes his first fastest lap, his first pole position and his first Grand Prix win, en route to seventh in the championship on 53 points.

2007

After a patchy start to his Formula One race career, comes on strong in the second half of the season, comfortably out-pointing veteran Renault team mate Giancarlo Fisichella and scoring his maiden podium with an impressive second place in Japan.

2006

Official third driver for world champions Renault.

2005

Finishes runner-up to Nico Rosberg in the inaugural GP2 series. Official Renault Formula One test driver.

2004

World Series by Nissan champion, with six wins, nine poles and 10 fastest laps. Joins Renault Formula One team as official test driver.

2003

Second overall in World Series by Nissan. Also takes second place in the Macau Grand Prix. Formula One tests with Renault and Minardi.

2002

Rookie of the Year in British Formula Three series - third overall with five wins, three pole positions and three fastest laps. Displays strong form in international F3 events, with second place in the Macau Grand Prix and fourth at the Marlboro Masters.

2001

Debut season in single-seaters. Takes fourth overall in British Formula Renault championship to become Rookie of the Year, with two wins, two pole positions and three fastest laps.