As if to want to give reason to the saying that "there are no two without three", Fernando Alonso was confirmed as the replacement for Daniel Ricciardo at Renault in 2021.
If you recall, this possibility has been discussed since Daniel Ricciardo was introduced as Carlos Sainz Jr.'s replacement at McLaren for 2021, and has now been officially confirmed by Renault.
Fernando Alonso thus puts an end to a temporary "reform" that made him withdraw from Formula 1 for two seasons and returns to a house he has already been to twice and in which he lived the best moments of his career, becoming two-time world champion in 2005 and 2006.
Fernando AlonsoRenault is my family (…) It is with great pride and immense emotion that I return to the team that gave me a chance at the beginning of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level.
The goal? Back to the top
According to Cyril Abiteboul, managing director of Renault Sport Racing, the hiring of Alonso “is part of the Renault Group's plan to continue its commitment to F1 and return to the top”.
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At the same time, the Frenchman stated that Alonso's mission at Renault is to "help the Renault DP World F1 Team to prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions".
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 @lo_official @OconEsteban pic.twitter.com/Qe0WfBazzN
— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) July 8, 2020
It should be remembered that for 2022 new regulations are expected to come into force in Formula 1, which, in addition to aiming at reducing costs, also aim to balance the squad.
Regarding these goals, Fernando Alonso stated: “I have ambitions in line with the team's project. Its progress this winter gives credibility to the goals set for 2022 and I will share all my experience with everyone (…) The team wants to get back on the podiums and has the means to do it, just like me”.
“Renault is my family, my fondest memories in Formula One with my two World Championship titles, but I'm now looking ahead. It's a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I'm returning to the team […]” – @lo_official #RSspirit pic.twitter.com/H9tUKpr4OI
— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) July 8, 2020
Now, all that remains is to see how the Spaniard's return to Formula 1 goes, bearing in mind that when he returns he will be 39 years old and will have to resume the pace he lost in two years away from the premier class of motorsport.