Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One in 2021 with Renault.
The team confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that the 38-year old will join Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for next season.
The Spaniard has been out of F1 since leaving McLaren at the end of the 2018 season.
OFFICIAL NEWS
🏁 Fernando Alonso joins Renault DP World F1 Team 🏁
Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season.
👉 https://t.co/yjnnGHh8Yb #RSspirit @alo_oficial @OconEsteban pic.twitter.com/Qe0WfBazzN— BWT Alpine F1 Team (@AlpineF1Team) July 8, 2020
Alonso won two world championships with Renault in 2005 and 2006 and is delighted to return.
“Renault is my family, my fondest memories in F1 with my two World Championship titles,” Alonso said
“It’s a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I’m returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level.
“I have principles and ambitions in line with the team’s project. Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season.
“I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates. The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I.”
Cyril Abiteboul, Managing Director of Renault Sport Racing said that the signing, “is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field.”
“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.
“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.”
Since leaving F1 at the end of 2018, Alonso has won the Le Mans 24 Hours and the FIA World Endurance Championship. He has also finished in 13th in the famous Dakar Rally.
Alonso’s return is just the latest development in a chaotic F1 driver’s market.
The Renault seat that Alonso will now fill only became available after Daniel Ricciardo agreed to move to McLaren in 2021.
Ferrari have also announced that Carlos Sainz will replace Sebastian Vettel for the 2021 season.
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