Renault labels Alonso 'an option' for 2021, but won't rush choice

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Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says Fernando Alonso is on the manufacturer's short list for 2021, but the French outfit will take its time to complete its future line-up.

Daniel Ricciardo's move from Renault to McLaren for next season has left a vacant seat at the Enstone-based squad.

Alonso's name popped up immediately after the announcement of Ricciardo's transfer, with pundits speculating on a return of the Spaniard to the team with which he won his two world championship titles in 2005 and 2006.

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Abiteboul has now given credence to the hypothesis, but the Renault boss is also looking at other names that could be paired with Esteban Ocon in 2021.

"There could be many drivers [that could replace Ricciardo], as there are great drivers available for next year," Abiteboul told in an interview with RMC radio.

"The one you just mentioned, Fernando Alonso, is an option but there are others.

"The only thing I can say is that we'll take our time to think about this. It's an extremely important decision. We didn't want to follow the type of active involvement showed by Ferrari and McLaren, for whatever were their reasons.

Abiteboul admitted being puzzled by the willingness displayed by the two teams to secure their 2021 line-ups before a single race has taken place.

"Honestlly, to choose a driver even before the current season started… We found that a bit strange," he added.

"This driver choice is the last piece of the puzzle of our reconstruction, hence the importance for us to take our time to make the right choice."

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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.