Renault have announced an unchanged driver line-up for next season with Fernando Alonso signing a two-year extension for 2009 and 2010, and Nelson Piquet confirmed for a further season.
“We are happy to confirm both Fernando and Nelson for next season,” said the team’s Managing Director, Flavio Briatore. “This gives the ING Renault F1 Team one of the most exciting driver pairings with the perfect blend of youth and experience.
“Fernando’s commitment for the next two seasons confirms the faith he has in the team and we are delighted to continue working with him. He has been a big asset throughout this difficult season and his leadership and talent, matched with the team’s hard work and determination, have paid off with our recent performances, which have placed the ING Renault F1 Team back among the top competitors of Formula One.”
Former world champion Alonso, who won in Singapore and Japan this year, said: “After a difficult start to the season we have overcome our difficulties and constantly improved our performances. My back-to-back wins in Singapore and Japan, and my recent second-place finish in Brazil, have proved how competitive we can be.”
He added: “In the past we have won championships together, as well as going through tough moments, but we are now determined to show that we can repeat that success together in the coming seasons.”
“I have decided to stay with the ING Renault F1 team because, as I have often repeated this season, they have always been my first choice and I feel very happy and comfortable with them,” Alonso said.
Renault stuck with Piquet Jr. despite an erratic season. The 23-year-old Brazilian finished second at Hockenheim but failed to finish 13 of the 18 races. GP2 driver Romain Grosjean, who came up in the team’s young driver program and had tested for the team at Jerez this year, was believed to have been in the running to take Piquet Jr.‘s place.
“Although I have had a tough year, I have learned a lot from my rookie season, and I will aim to put that experience to good use next season,” Piquet Jr. said. “I want to thank the team for their support this year and for the trust they have shown in me for the future.”
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