Renault confirm Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet Jnr in 2008
Renault has confirmed its driver line-up for the 2008 season with Fernando Alonso making a widely-anticipated return to the team.
He will be partnered by Brazilian rookie Nelson Piquet Jnr, son of three-times world champion Nelson Snr.
Piquet’s appointment points to an unusual coincidence – he takes the place of Heikki Kovalainen, the 2005 GP2 runner-up who was Renault’s test driver in 2006. Piquet was GP2 runner-up last year and Renault test driver in 2007.
Kovalainen is expected to be confirmed as Lewis Hamilton’s team mate at McLaren for 2008. Kovalainen had earlier commented that he did not want to be at a team where he would be forced into a number two role, suggesting he did not want to partner Alonso.
Reports suggest Alonso has signed a three-year deal, refuting earlier rumours linking him to a deal with Ferrari for 2009. Renault has also confirmed F3 Euroseries champion and Renault Development Driver Romain Grosjean as a test driver for 2008.
More on the 2008 F1 season
Vertigo said on 12th December 2007, 17:11
I don’t see why Max Mosley can’t get an honour because he was part of the Fascists, his dad led the Fascists and he got a knighthood (although I don’t know when he got it).
Catalonia said on 13th December 2007, 17:35
I think history will probably repeat itself with this new combination. I only hope we don’t see any more tantrums from Alonso if Piquet ends up thrashing him like Hamilton did ;-o
Oski Eno said on 16th December 2007, 20:32
To Dave #30: I am Latin, and you might consider that you read into my comment that “all Latins” are like this, because that is your prejudice. Or is it that you are unaware of Nelsinho’s reputation from the lower formula? Perhaps the “supermodel” reference seems anti-women to you. Are you unaware of Mr. Briatore’s reputation?
Humor requires a shared context. I’m sorry you missed the joke.