OFFICIAL: Fernando Alonso returns to Renault for 2021

OFFICIAL: Fernando Alonso returns to Renault for 2021

The 2005 and 2006 champion makes his Formula 1 return after two years away

Sam Hall

Wednesday 8 July 2020 13:08 Updated: 13:22

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Fernando Alonso will return to his Renault 'family' for the 2021 Formula 1 season, the Spaniard winning both the 2005 and 2006 titles with the team.

Alonso sat out both the 2019 and 2020 F1 seasons following a less than successful period with McLaren. He now returns for a third stint with the Renault team, replacing McLaren-bound Daniel Ricciardo as teammate to Esteban Ocon.

"Renault is my family, my fondest memories in Formula One with my two World Championship titles, but I’m now looking ahead. 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," said Alonso.

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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."

OFFICIAL NEWS

? Fernando Alonso joins Renault DP World F1 Team ?
Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season.

? https://t.co/yjnnGHh8Yb #RSspirit @alo_oficial @OconEsteban pic.twitter.com/Qe0WfBazzN
— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) July 8, 2020

Alonso will return to Renault for a third stint with the team. The Spaniard previously enjoyed a successful spell with the team between which included two world titles between 2003 and 2006, and a less successful period between 2008 and 2009.

Team principal Cyril Abiteboul added: "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. 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. He will also bring to our team, which has grown very fast, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together.

"Alongside Esteban [Ocon], his mission will be to help Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions."

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