Renault has confirmed that it will be taking over Lotus next year to return as a works Formula One team.
Renault has confirmed that it will be taking over Lotus next year to return as a works Formula One team. The French company has been a part of F1 for the last 40 years and has been a works team before. They controlled Lotus between 2002 and 2010. They were world champions in 2005 and 2006. Both the seasons were won with Spanish driver Fernando Alonso behind the wheel of the Renault F1 car. Their last F1 win with a works car was in Japan, 2008.
Nicolas Prost in the R29 in 2010
Renault chairman Carlos Ghosn said: “Renault had two options: to come back at 100 percent or leave. After a detailed study, I have decided that Renault will be in Formula 1, starting 2016. The final details supplied by F1’s main stakeholders gave us the confidence to accept this new challenge. Our ambition is to win – even if it will take some time.”
The final details of the deal is expected to be completed in the shortest time frame possible and they will be revealed next month.
2006 Renault F1 Team R26
In a statement issued by Renault, it said, “Renault’s decision to continue its involvement in Formula 1 is confirmation that it sees motorsport as an essential part of the brand’s identity. Formula 1 is the ultimate symbol of the passion for automobiles. Passion defines Renault as expressed by its brand signature, ‘Passion for Life’. In addition to attracting many customers, Formula 1 also fuels employee motivation. As the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1 demands technological and operational excellence. The championship serves as a showcase for the technological expertise that Renault dials into its products for the benefit of its customers. In January, we will provide more detailed information about Renault’s F1 programme ahead of the 2016 championship that begins next March.”
Lotus had earlier confirmed the drivers for next year and they are also expected to drive for Renault. The drivers are Venezuelan driver Pastor Maldonado and British driver Jolyon Palmer, who will be debuting in Formula One next year with the team.
Lotus Took Over The Renault Formula One Team As Lotus Renault