Renault mulls filming day to give Alonso first run

Renault could use a filming day or its current 2018-car program to give 2021 recruit Fernando Alonso his first run with the French team.

Renault has already introduced a request for permission to include Alonso in F1's post-season young drivers' test at Abu Dhabi, but pending the outcome of that decision by the FIA, the Estone squad is working on an alternative plan to give its future driver track time ahead of his return to the grid next season.

"One thing I can say is that he's definitely keen on getting back behind the steering wheel, so we will see," commented Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul in Friday's team principals' media conference in Sochi.

"We are building the programme and there are a couple of opportunities within the restrictions of the sporting regulations.

"There are things like filming days that we've not done so far. There is a post-season test that I have already commented on, and we'll see where we get there.

"We also have a two-year-old car programme that we can run pretty much anywhere. And he'll probably do a bit of that also.

"So you'll see him in action. But I can't say here, where and when exactly yet."

• Read also: Alonso reflects on 'first day at school' with Renault

Alonso kicked off his preparations for 2021 by visiting his future team at Enstone where he also spent a day in Renault's simulator.

But the Spaniard also toured the manufacturer's engine department in Viry, a stopover that has the two-time world champion raring to go.

"I can tell you that he was really impressed by all the changes in Viry," said Abiteboul.

"All the new people, the energy, the drive, the determination that there is in Viry, developing a new PU for what is now 2022.

"It's something that is extremely important to us to see Fernando and to see his pride, and his excitement in his eyes. He has also been a witness of all the changes in Enstone.

"But a nice building is not the statement of what's coming. So we just need to work very hard to make sure that he has a car that he wants and also that he deserves."

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