Renault will not replace Piquet for Hungary
The Renault team released a statement today presenting the Hungarian Grand Prix on July 26th. It confirms the presence of Nelson Piquet Junior at the wheel of the R29 on the Hungaroring. Nelson Piquet, who has been racing with Renault for a year and a half, was under pressure from his managers, particularly Flavio Briatore, […]
The Renault team released a statement today presenting the Hungarian Grand Prix on July 26th. It confirms the presence of Nelson Piquet Junior at the wheel of the R29 on the Hungaroring.
Nelson Piquet, who has been racing with Renault for a year and a half, was under pressure from his managers, particularly Flavio Briatore, to deliver results. Lacking in performance, the Brazilian, son of the F1 world champion, could have been replaced.
Briatore indeed placed an option on the young driver for 9 Grand Prix in 2009, beyond which, Piquet could or could not be renewed.
The contract not satisfying Renault, Piquet would be extended for only one race, in which he will have the same car (and technological and aerodynamic developments) as his teammate. They will then be judged equally, and a new decision could be made at the end of the Hungarian weekend.
Romain Grosjean, Renault’s 3rd driver, French winner of the GP2 Asia during the winter, remains the favorite to replace Piquet.
