Alonso set to attend two races this year to help Renault

Fernando Alonso has declared himself willing to attend "a couple of races" this year and help Renault with "anything they need" ahead of his 2021 move.

Alonso will rejoin Renault for a third time from next season when he replaces McLaren-bound Daniel Ricciardo next year.

To acclimatise again with once familiar surroundings, Alonso this week visited the Enstone and Viry-Chatillon factories.

However, to further integrate himself into the team and get a head start on next season, the 39-year-old is willing to visit at least two circuits.

"I think the focus from now until next year is to follow what the team needs from my side," said Alonso.

"I think there will be a couple of simulator days at the factory, preparing for next year and helping on the weekends this year somehow.

"I guess I will come to a couple of races, just to follow the team trackside and try to understand the philosophy on the weekend.

"Abu Dhabi will probably be a must and hopefully, I can go to Imola, which is close to my home in Switzerland. I will be available for the team for anything they need."

Renault, which will be rebranded Alpine for 2021, currently sit fifth in the constructors' standings and is embroiled in a fierce battle with McLaren and Racing Point for third.

After previously looking unlikely to achieve such a position, two fourth-place results from Daniel Ricciardo in the last three races has thrust Renault back into the mix.

This has delighted the watching Alonso who feels it will stand the team in good stead for next season.

"I think the last three races were encouraging for everyone at the team, for myself as well, watching the races at home and for all the fans, to see Renault back in a competitive manner, I think is a good thing for the sport," said Alonso.

"I have been delighted to see the performance improvements, but knowing at the same time there is a long way to go.

"The midfield is very tight, one weekend it can be good and the next it can be bad so I think the guys are doing an amazing job trackside."

Before you go...

Vettel "sad" to see Schumacher's "impossible" record tumble to Hamilton

Ricciardo not "left on the side" by Alonso's Renault arrival

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