Alonso return to Renault a 'bold mutual choice' - Abiteboul

©Renault

Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says the French outfit's renewed association with Fernando Alonso for 2021 is the reflection of a "bold mutual choice".

Alonso will return to the fray next season, having left F1 at the end of 2018 after failing to find success with the Woking-based outfit.

But Alonso's period away from Grand Prix racing has evidently rekindled the motivation of the two-time world champion and 38-year-old, who has set his sights on carrying Renault to the front of the grid next year, alongside young teammate Esteban Ocon.

"The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field," said Abiteboul.

"His presence in our team is a formidable asset on the sporting level but also for the brand to which he is very attached.

"The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans make him a natural choice. In addition to past successes, it is a bold mutual choice as well as a project for the future."

Renault sates that its desire is to "build a team around two complementary drivers, combining experience and youth, and pooling their values and talent in the service of the project".

"His experience and determination will enable us to get the best out of each other to take the team towards the excellence that modern Formula 1 demands," added Abiteboul.

"He will also bring to our team, which has grown very fast, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together.

"Alongside Esteban, his mission will be to help Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions."

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