Renault has announced a new scholarship for Chinese drivers competing in Asian Formula Renault to enter the French manufacturer’s revived young driver programme – the Renault Sport Academy (RSA) – in 2017.
After adding Chinese karting ace Sun Yue Yang to its current junior roster, the French constructor is further expanding its Asian presence.
Thus, Renault Sport and Dongfeng Renault Automotive Company have launched an initiative to boost young local racers' chances of progressing through the motorsport ranks to Formula One.
A new detection scheme will be introduced whereby Renault teams up with motorsport promoter Formula Racing Developments (FRD) to pick the best talent in the last three rounds of Asian Formula Renault.
“The Renault Sport Academy is a highly beneficial tool for young drivers,” said Renault Racing Director Frédéric Vasseur, who also oversees the RSA. “Firstly, we thoroughly evaluate them to give the right steer through the vast motorsport landscape.
“Then, they are exposed to the pinnacle of technology through the F1 team and what is required to get there. In short, we aim to turn each Academy driver into an elite athlete, capable of performing to his or her absolute best. The Academy is also a tool for the Renault markets to better engage with motorsport within their own regions.”
Kenneth Ma, President of FRD Motorsport, added: ‘Asian Formula Renault is the longest-running motorsport series in China. The first car was brought to the country by Formula Racing Development in 1997. Over the past 20 years more than 500 racing drivers have been involved and trained by the championship.
“This scholarship will encourage talented young Chinese racing drivers to further participate in motorsport. This will have a big impact for young drivers, and the recognition from an F1 team will give even more impetus to compete. For Renault Sport it is also an opportunity to develop future Chinese F1 drivers at a grass roots level.
“FRD has been trying to find the best drivers for the world. Now, with the help of Renault Sport, I am sure that the Asian Formula Renault Series will go from strength to strength with even more young talented drivers coming through the ranks.”
Chris Medland's 2016 Chinese Grand Prix preview
PROFILE: Paddy Lowe, the pioneer
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
