Fernando Alonso returns to Formula 1

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.

With 314 Grand Prix starts, 32 victories and 97 podiums to his name, Fernando Alonso will be part of the Renault DP World F1 Team for the coming seasons. Given the strong historical and emotional bond between the team and Fernando Alonso - Renault and Fernando won their two World Championship titles together in 2005 and 2006 - this decision is both bold and significant for the future.

Renault's values make it one of the greatest brands in Formula 1, and Fernando is a great driver who returns to Formula 1 enriched by other experiences and ready to build with his beloved team. The principles of work, overachieving and resourcefulness, as well as Fernando's DNA of tenacity and pure talent, make this connection obvious. He will be an asset in the many efforts to win the title and give meaning to Renault's commitment to motorsport at the highest level. The desire is to build a team around two complementary drivers who combine experience and youth, bringing together their values and talents in the service of the project. Fernando's fighting spirit should benefit the entire team and enable everyone to achieve their goals.

Cyril Abiteboul, Managing Director of Renault Sport Racing:

"The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault's plan to continue its commitment to F1 and return to the top of the field. His presence in our team is a tremendous asset on a sporting level, but also for the brand to which he is very attached. The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans makes him a natural choice. In addition to the successes of the past, it is a brave joint decision and a project for the future. His experience and determination will allow us to bring out the best in each other to lead the team to the excellence that modern Formula 1 demands. He will also bring to our team, which has grown very quickly, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together. Together with Esteban, his role will be to help the Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions."

Fernando Alonso:

"Renault is my family, my fondest memories of Formula 1 with my two World Championship titles, but I am now looking ahead. It fills me with great pride and I return with immense emotion to the team that gave me the chance at the beginning of my career and that now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level. I have principles and ambitions that are in line with the team's project. Their progress this winter lends credibility to the goals for the 2022 season, and I will share all my racing experience with everyone, from the engineers to the mechanics to my teammates. The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, just like me."