Renault Had an ‘Easy’ F1 Exit Option Over ‘Changes at the Top Level’: Prost

Renault had a well-placed season in 2020. Although they finished with a P5 at Constructors, they were in a tight battle for P3. The team rebranded as Alpine comes with a new promise in 2021. However, the picture was to be different for the French.

Fernando Alonso returns to his championship team. The Spaniard bagged two titles with Renault. However, he left because of the monotony of the sport. The revised regulations and new strategies have motivated him to come back. However, the fate of Renault remains uncertain.

Amid the tight financial crunch in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many constructors were rumored to leave F1. Renault were one on the list.

However, a change in the administration led the team back on track. They not only fought well but made it to the podium thrice this season.

An advisor at the French camp, Alain Prost, revealed daunting facts. The team were indeed financially choked. However, he states that the new CEO is responsible for bringing the team some solace. It was a tough job, and it is now accomplished.

“If something changes at the top level, which has happened, then the Formula 1 exit would have been easy,” revealed the former F1 Champion.

“Instead, we have a strategy based around the Alpine brand.

“Renault wants to use Formula 1 as a marketing and image tool. Apart from Ferrari, we are the only manufacturer to have a clearly defined medium and long-term programme. That has not always been the case with Renault in the past.”

Luca de Meo has turned things around at the French camp. The future seems bright, and the promise is stronger than before.

READ MORE- ‘I am so Grateful’- Daniel Ricciardo Reflects on Renault Exit With a Heartfelt Message

Renault is threatening leaders

Renault had climbed to P3 over the course of the season. With 2 quick podiums from Daniel Ricciardo, Renault were flying high. The Middle eastern tripleheader was not very kind to them though. Thus they had to settle with P5.

However, for 2021, they are set and ready. Rebranded as Alpine and back with Alonso, Abiteboul and team look ahead to a better season. Even Ross Brawn had put in a good word for the team. Well, that cannot be futile compliments, that is praise well earned.

Even Prost is optimistic about his team now. With the new strategies and the form of its drivers, Alpine looks to bring the fight to the leaders. With Ocon bagging a podium at Sakhir and Alonso looking strong at practise, the team is high on spirit.

“The most interesting thing is the fact all the little things we adjusted on the car worked well. This gives us hope for the future and allows us to make a plan for the next two years. We can look ahead a little more calmly,” remarked Prost.

Well, with the enthusiastic CEO holding office, a lot is possible at Alpine next year. With the unexpected podiums this year, they have already announced their strength. They need to maintain that form and they are already a threat to the leaders.

READ MORE- Sainz Tips Fernando Alonso to Be a Bigger Threat Than Ricciardo at Renault