Renault's path to success will require more resources - Abiteboul

©WRI

The Renault works outfit will ultimately require additional resources and a bigger budget to fight for the world title contends team boss Cyril Abiteboul.

The French manufacturer which returned to Grand Prix racing in 2016 has been steadily improving its performance and currently sits fourth the Constructors' standing behind the unassailable Mercedes-Ferrari-Red Bull trio.

The team has nevertheless set it sights on bridging the gap and eventually overhauling its rivals at the end of its ambitious five-year plan.

Renault discourages Red Bull to switch to Honda power

But Abiteboul insisted that more resources would be required in the process.

"True. It's something we need to work on," he told Globo in Montreal.

"It's necessary to grow in all areas in terms of people, investment and, as you say, budget.

"So if we finish fourth instead of sixth, we will get more money and sponsors will be more attracted to our project.

"They will see that we have credibility. Success generates success in formula one. That is the cycle we need to enter and then we fight for the title."

Abiteboul admitted however that Renault has been challenged by Grand Prix racing's current engine rules and the massive technical difficulties they entail.

"The engineering challenge is immense, which is why Honda has difficulties," said the Frenchman.

"There are also those who interpret the regulations in a particular way to obtain extra power.

"The subject of burning oil is an example. We did not go down that path but it would have given us a lot more performance."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.