Alonso returns to Renault F1 for 2021posted in F108 | 07 | 2020

    DOUBLE FORMULA 1 world champion Fernando Alonso will return to race with Renault in 2021. The Spaniard will partner Frenchman Esteban Ocon. (Related: Alonso quits F1 for 2019)

    With 314 Grand Prix starts, 32 wins and 97 podiums, Alonso, who won the world title with Renault in 2005 and 2006, has signed a two-year deal. This will be his third stint with the team. (Related: Alonso wins Le Mans 24-Hours)

    “Renault is my family, my fondest memories in Formula 1 with my two World Championship titles, but I’m now looking ahead,” Alonso, who first joined Renault as a test driver in 2002, before being promoted to a race seat the following year said today. (Related: Bottas wins dramatic 2020 season-opener in Austria)

    “It’s a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I’m returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level.

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    “I have principles and ambitions in line with the team’s project. Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates.

    “The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I.”

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    Alonso has been out of F1 since he walked away at the end of 2018, having grown tire of the lack of results at McLaren. Since leaving F1, Alonso has won the Le Mans 24 Hours and the World Endurance Championship for Toyota, as well competing in the Dakar Rally earlier this year. He has also contested the Indianapolis 500, a race he will compete in again later this year.

    The former Ferrari and McLaren racer’s return to the Enstone-based F1 team was welcomed by Renault Sport Racing managing director, Cyril Abiteboul.

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    “The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field,” Abiteboul said. “His presence in our team is a formidable asset on the sporting level but also for the brand to which he is very attached.

    “The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans make him a natural choice. In addition to past successes, it is a bold mutual choice as well as a project for the future. His experience and determination will enable us to get the best out of each other to take the team towards the excellence that modern Formula 1 demands.

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    “He will also bring to our team, which has grown very fast, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together. Alongside Esteban, his mission will be to help Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions.”

    Related: Alonso to race Le Mans 24-Hours

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    Jim McGill

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