• ING Renault F1 Team is renewing the contracts of Fernando Alonso, for the 2009 and 2010
seasons, and Nelson Piquet, for 2009, under the direction of Flavio Briatore, Managing
Director of ING Renault F1 Team.
• Renault has been a major player in Formula 1 for over 30 years, claiming the
Manufacturers' and Drivers' titles in 2005 and 2006 with Fernando Alonso.
After a tough start to the season, Renault became the fourth ranked manufacturer in Formula 1 in
second-half 2008, notching up 80 points. The Team scored two wins in a row at the Singapore and
Japan Grand Prix and placed second in Brazil. Currently ranked fifth in the drivers’ championship,
Fernando Alonso wrapped up the season in style with three podium finishes in the last four races of
the year, making him the best driver over the last six Grand Prix events in 2008.
“We are pleased to continue our Formula 1 experience with Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet, two
remarkable drivers," said Bernard Rey, President of ING Renault F1 Team. “The technical team
showed all its prowess in returning to the top under the direction of Flavio Briatore. With nearly 2.5
billion TV viewers every season, Formula 1 racing brings the Renault brand strong media exposure,
especially in growth markets.”
With the growing links between Formula 1 and production vehicles, the technological advances made
in racing directly benefit mass-market models. These synergies take different forms : they are
reflected in the vehicles developed by Renault Sport Technologie, such as Mégane Renault Sport, as
well as in enhancing engine efficiency, electronics and materials.