Fernando Alonso and Renault are already preparing for 2021
Earlier this week, Fernando Alonso made his "homecoming" by visiting the Renault factories in Enstone and Viry-Châtillon to prepare for his return to Formula 1.
Alonso’s career is closely linked to Renault’s. The Spaniard won two world championships with the team in 2005 and 2006 and will be teamed with Esteban Ocon starting next year. The driver took advantage of these visits to get a head start for 2021.
During the two days spent in Enstone, Alonso took the opportunity to dedicate an entire day to the simulator. He also molded his seat and met the engineers with whom he will work. Alonso then flew to Paris to spend a third day visiting the engine factory.
« Returning to Enstone was a very good experience, it was very emotional days, commented Fernando Alonso. « Many things have changed; the simulator is new, the wind tunnel has been updated, but some things have remained the same, like the offices and the gym I used to visit often. »
« It was like the first day of school, with a lot to learn and information to digest, but it was very productive. I followed a program in the simulator, got a bit used to the car, tested the facilities – the last time I was here, the simulator didn’t exist! Then, I molded my seat and had meetings with key people to understand next year’s program. It was really about getting up to speed. »
Alonso added that his visit, along with the team’s recent form, had left him optimistic for his return.
« I think the team has all the keys in hand for the future. The last races have been encouraging for everyone, including myself. Seeing Renault being competitive again is a good thing for the sport and I was delighted to see this progress. »
« We still have a long way to go and the middle of the standings is very tight, but I think the guys did an amazing job on the track. The last two races have been very exciting to watch and I can’t wait to get back in the race. I will now follow everything the team expects of me: simulator days, helping on some weekends, and being available. »
Cyril Abiteboul, team principal and managing director of Renault F1, added: « It was great to see Fernando in person with the team again. He is extremely motivated to make the best start possible. He wants to be very involved in the preparations. Spending three days in Enstone and Viry-Châtillon has allowed both parties to reconnect and lay down foundations early, which will be essential for getting the 2021 season off on the right foot, a key year in our progression as a team. »
During his Formula 1 career, Alonso also drove for McLaren and Ferrari. He not only won two world championships but also finished second three times. His 32 wins place him sixth on the list for most victories. He is also sixth in the number of podium finishes with 97 appearances. With 311 starts, he ranks third in the number of starts behind Rubens Barrichello (322) and Kimi Räikkönen (321).
“It was a like a first day at school, with lots of things to learn and get through, but it was very productive.” – @alo_oficial
Fernando on his return to Enstone and Viry:
???????? https://t.co/M3Ljrz4TmO // ???????? https://t.co/CqUNPphWte #RSspirit pic.twitter.com/rUSW0uLyjg— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) September 24, 2020
