Renault mulls switching focus to 2019 car

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After just five races into the current season, Renault is already pondering whether to switch part of its focus and resources to its 2019 car.

The French outfit is slowly but surely building its case to become once again a front-running team, putting in place the structure and foundation to fulfill its ambition of fighting for the world title in 2020.

Renault currently heads F1's tight mid-field battle but technical director Bob Bell suggests Enstone could soon start transferring resources to next year's car.

"We are currently discussing whether we should reduce the development of this year's car," admitted Bell.

"We haven't decided yet as we're in a tight fight for the top places in the midfield and can't afford to back off the development. But we need to think about it," he added.

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Should the team indeed decide to switch its attention to 2019, Nico Hulkenberg would approve the move.

"For me it wouldn't be a problem, even if it hurts our chances this season," said the German.

Next season will see a series of changes to F1's aerodynamic rules, a good reason for any team to get a head start.

But Bell admitted that Renault was not in the camp of those who voted through the recent regulation tweaks that Formula 1 claims will improve overtaking and promote closer racing.

Finally, Bell admitted that Renault did not vote for the aerodynamic changes that Liberty Media claims will improve overtaking chances in 2019.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.