It was late 2017 when McLaren, Toro Rosso and Renault made a series of announcements. McLaren were to ditch Honda and Toro Rosso were to take them up starting 2018 itself. They were being replaced by Renault, which were nowhere near Ferrari or Mercedes, but were much better than Honda. McLaren fans were happy that the Honda project was put aside. But issues still remained.
In 2017, they finished a low ninth. Probably the worst season for McLaren. Fernando Alonso mocked the team and the engine extensively. In 2018, with Renault, they finished sixth. In 2019, they hold a comfortable lead over Renault in fourth. However, the gap to the top teams is still gigantic. In a bid to cut this down, McLaren decided to jump the gun and get the rather more expensive, but a well built engine – the famous Mercedes power unit. Not only does this play well for the team, but also for Renault, who will be wanting to focus on themselves for the 2021 season and the changes that it brings.
This is what Cyril Abiteboul had to say:
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“Since our partnership began, McLaren has gone from ninth to fourth position in the Constructors’ Championship. We can therefore consider this a very successful relationship. However, while looking beyond the terms of the current contract, which concludes at the end of 2020, it was apparent that Renault and McLaren have different ambitions for the future.
“Each of the different elements of this decision have been carefully evaluated over the past few weeks. 2021 will be a crucial season for all teams and it is important for us to have a precise and clear view of the strengths and ambitions of our competitors going forward.
“This decision is in line with Renault’s vision to become a works’ team, with a goal to return to the front.
“Renault will continue to honour its commitments to McLaren Racing next season, as has always been the case over our long history of engine supply.”
For 2020, Renault are partnering Daniel Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon. The Australian will be in his final year for Renault, if in case he agrees for an extension, that’s a different thing. With 2021 coming up, both Renault and McLaren have made it clear that their intentions are to fight for the top and not scrape for points in the midfield where they currently find themselves
