“He is a Brand in Himself”- Fernando Alonso Praised by Renault Group CEO

It is now common knowledge that Renault are slated to change their name and colors, and will be known as Alpine F1 soon enough. The brand change campaign is underway ahead of next season and is more than what meets the eye.

Taking a step in a fresh direction, the signing of the Concorde Agreement until 2025 was a vital sign for the team. But, more importantly, they now have a legendary driver in Fernando Alonso back in the garage with them.

Fernando Alonso looking to create a positive impact on Alpine F1

Speaking in an exclusive interview with AS, Renault CEO Luca de Meo was quoted saying, “I have just arrived from Spain. I am very aware of its appeal in that country and in many other countries, also in South America.

“He is a brand in himself, a very strong driver. And he’s very, very motivated to go home. It happens a bit like me, I also started at Renault and come back after 25 years. We are both very happy to make our contribution.

“I think, without a doubt, it is an asset, an advantage.” (translated from Google Translate)

Alonso needs no introduction to the team per se. Winning both his Drivers’ Championships in 2005 and 2006, he won 15 races and 27 podiums of the 71 races he drove for Renault. He has previously expressed his interest to get behind the new Alpine F1 Racing team and do well for them.

Motivation is something that he does not lack, and it will be interesting to witness the budding relationship between him and the French youngster, Esteban Ocon.

The latter has been decent in his first full season with Renault, sitting 12th in the Drivers’ standings. The Frenchman has also earned the team a points finish on no less than 5 of the 9 races so far.

Alonso wants to get back on the grid as soon as possible

The excitement in Alonso’s mind knows no bounds. So much so, that Renault explored avenues to get the veteran driver in the young drivers’ test. Although they might not grant this request, he will still have the winter testing to look forward to ahead of the 2021 season.

Hopefully, we can see ‘Magic Alonso’ displaying his skills very soon. And watching him make his way to the podium after a long hiatus from Formula 1, would make for an even better sight.