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Fernando Alonso Reveals He Held Talks with Other F1 Teams Before the Renault Signing

Published 11/04/2020, 9:58 AM EST

Recently, Fernando Alonso made a straightforward signing with Renault F1 team without much of a complication for 2021. The Spaniard revealed that he had held talks with other teams as well. He also added that Renault’s “appealing” expectations temped him to choose them over the others.

Speaking to SkySportF1, Alonso revealed the reason behind his decision to go with the Renault signing. “I talked to a few teams. But Renault was always the preferred choice for two reasons,” he said.

“One in terms of expectations and building something from the midfield to the top, it is very attractive. Very appealing. And secondly, I know everyone in this team. I know the passion for racing. It’s the third time I come here, and I knew I would feel at home here.”

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The talks between Alonso and Renault were quite subtle for a while. However, Daniel Ricciardo‘s McLaren move pushed Renault to grab the Spaniard as the team needed an experienced driver to accompany the young Frenchman, Esteban Ocon.

Why Fernando Alonso could be the perfect fit for Renault

The two-time world champion is a driver who has always demanded competitive cars throughout his career. On the other hand, Renault are a team that are working incredibly hard in carrying themselves back to where they belong, and that is the top of the podium.

Hence, Alonso’s never-ending hunger for wins could be the boost that Renault have been aching for all these years. Along with that, Alonso also has an abundant experience that will help Renault get themselves ready for the 2022 season, one that could witness the outset of a new era in F1.

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As of now, Renault’s only focus will be to provide the 39-year old with as much track-time as possible over the next season. Eventually, as the Spaniard sets himself well enough in the team, then it will be entirely about developing their 2022 car, which will comprise the technical regulation changes.

The relationship between Renault and Alonso will also play a huge part in this. Renault have topped the constructors’ table twice in Formula 1, back in 2005 and 2006.

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During both of their triumphs, Alonso was part of the team as he too lifted the drivers’ trophy. Now, with the return of the Spaniard after over a decade, Renault will definitely be hoping to re-kindle those moments.

Hence, the only question is, could Fernando Alonso yet again help Renault/Alpine Racing lift the Constructors’ Trophy in the years to come?

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Written by:

Rohit Kumar is an F1 author at EssentiallySports. He has been an ardent follower of the racing series since 2007, with his love for the sport coinciding with his love for Kimi Raikkonen. He is also an ardent follower of Sebastian Vettel and Aston Martin Racing.

Fernando Alonso Reveals He Held Talks with Other F1 Teams Before the Renault Signing

Why Fernando Alonso could be the perfect fit for Renault

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