Assessment: Renault at its lowest but a page turns!

The first F1 race held at dusk saw Fernando Alonso and Romain Grosjean cross the finish line in 14th and 18th positions. These are, of course, very disappointing results for both of them. The former can find some consolation in his transfer to Ferrari, which might crown him world champion for the third time.

The second driver will most likely not be behind the wheel of a Renault next year as he has not demonstrated enough qualities to hope to remain in the team. The French team must rebuild for 2010 after a very challenging year in 2009 in every aspect. It can only do better with Robert Kubica and possibly Timo Glock.

Fernando Alonso – 14th:

The race was disappointing, and we were not able to perform at our best today. I wanted to finish the season with a flourish because it was my last Grand Prix with Renault, but it wasn’t possible. I want to thank the whole team for the work done during the years we spent together. We achieved wonderful victories and won the championship several times. I will never forget it.

Romain Grosjean – 18th:
«The race was disappointing. I got off to a good start, but then I got held up several times. I also struggled with brake issues. Towards the end of the race, I unfortunately had to let Fisichella through. In the end, the car’s performance didn’t allow me to show what I’m capable of. On a broader note, it was the last Grand Prix of the season and I feel like I’ve learned a lot since Valencia, especially with a teammate like Fernando.»

Jean-François Caubet – General Director:

This season has been difficult for Renault F1 Team in several ways. Technically, the year started with the confusion of double diffusers. Politically, we encountered many problems that were negative for us as well as for Formula 1. On the human side, we must mention Fernando’s departure, who will be missed. However, the next season is full of hope. We are turning the page and the future is ahead of us. Strategically, the situation is starting to become clearer, as the choice of drivers is taking shape and the technical developments proposed by Bob (Bell) and Rob (White) on the chassis and engine are promising. Finally, the sponsors are coming back. While we are disappointed with our performance today, we know that change is underway and we look to the future with confidence. The team is united and we are full of hope.

Bob Bell – Team Principal:

« Du point de vue de la performance, ce week-end a été décevant. Nos attentes étaient un peu plus élevées et notre résultat montre que nous n’avions pas le bon rythme. En tant qu’événement sportif, le Grand Prix d’Abou Dhabi a été fantastique et mérite des éloges pour la qualité de ses installations, ainsi que pour le week-end qui nous a été offert. C’est une bonne chose pour la F1 en général. En tant qu’équipe, nous sommes bien sûr déçus par notre course, nous aurions aimé terminer sur une note positive. Nous allons maintenant mettre cette course derrière nous, et nous serons de retour en force la saison prochaine. »

Rémi Taffin – Track Coordinator:

« Today’s race was difficult and, unfortunately, we did not finish in the points. On the engine side, we haven’t had any problems this season, but we lacked overall performance with the car. The assessment for the year is that we weren’t competitive enough. We will therefore work hard this winter to return to the highest level next season. »

According to a statement from the Renault F1 Team