A return to the old times at Renault? A spaniard and an Italian lead the F1 team

Renault and Formula 1

Renault joined Formula 1 for the first time in 1977. Jean Pierre Alain Jabouille is the first proud Frenchman to drive for the brand from his own country in the premier class of motorsport. While in 1977 the team compete in four races, in 1978 Renault drove the 12 Grands Prix.

Success as an engine supplier

Over the years, the team have won some races and, led by Rene Arnoux and Alain Prost, the team also climbed up the constructors' standings. In 1983, the team is closest to success, but closely miss out on the drivers 'and constructors' titles. When Prost leaves, Renault drops down the rankings. They announced their departure from Formula 1 at the end of 1985 as a team and after 1986 also as an engine supplier.

In 1989 the team returns, but only as an engine supplier and over the years Renault has been the most successful in this role. They win titles with Benetton, Williams and Red Bull Racing.

High peaks and deep valleys with Briatore

Benetton's victories give Renault hope and with Flavio Briatore and Ross Brawn at the helm, Renault returns as a Formula 1 team in 2002. The upward trend began and with the youngster, Fernando Alonso brought to Renault by Briatore, everything suddenly goes in the right direction. After years of Ferrari dominance, it is Renault that win the first world titles in 2005 and 2006.

However, the success is short-lived. Alonso leaves then returns and under the watchful eye of Briatore, Nelson Piquet Junior deliberately crashes into the wall at the command of the leadership. Renault collapses and retires from Formula 1 at the end of 2011.

Renault has been back in the sport since 2016, after winning four world titles with Red Bull Racing between 2010 and 2013. Cyril Abiteboul was given the keys but failed to make the final step to the top. Renault now chooses a different route and wants to make the step to the top under the name of Alpine.

Relive old times in Enstone

Renault no longer seems to count on Abiteboul for that step at the top. As team boss, the Frenchman has to make way for Marcin Budkowski, who will get a new CEO over him. The new CEO of Alpine will be Davide Brivio. 

After images of Fernando Alonso in his 2005 car, Renault seems even more on its way to the old years. Just like in 2005, an Italian CEO must ensure that Renault can again take a shot at the world title. At the wheel is that prodigy from Spain again. However, it is no longer a youngster. At 39 years old, however, Alonso still has the energy of young talent. Can he repeat his trick one more time under the guidance of an Italian manager?

This article was written and originally published by Tim on the Dutch edition of GPblog.com