Category: Renault

Williams F1 has reignited memories of its glory days by signing a new engine deal with Renault for the 2102 and 2013 seasons. The deal is being described as ‘long-term’ and both parties expect the relationship will continue into 2014 and beyond, following the switch to turbocharged V6 engines.

During the last Williams F1 deal with Renault Sport F1 (1989–1997) the partnership returned 63 race wins, four word drivers’ titles, five constructors titles.

Speaking at the announcement Sir Frank Williams said, “Our previous relationship with Renault was one of the most successful in Williams’ history but we will not allow ourselves to dwell too much on the past. We must look to the future and continue to re-build our on-track reputation, which I am hopeful that today’s announcement will help us to do.”

The full statement from Williams F1 can be read after the break, including a Q&A interview with Adam Parr, Chairman.

When we last spoke about Robert Kubica we had the positive news that he had been released from hospital and his recovery was going well. That said, it’s probably no surprise to learn Kubica is not expected to race in Formula One this year.

Speaking to Spanish media at last weekend’s Grand Prix, Gerard Lopez, Renault F1 chief, said, “We will probably manage for (Kubica) to do a Friday session at some point in the year but for sure his return this season will not be possible.”

Lopez continued by suggesting Kubica’s future return to F1 is no certainty, “Robert has survived an impressive accident and now he has to do the hardest thing, to recover fully, which is something that nobody knows whether he will succeed. Not him, nor the doctors, nor us.”

Whatever the case may be, we wish Kubica the best for his recovery and hope to see him in a Formula One car as soon as possible.

[Source: Reuters UK | Pic: Lotus Renault GP/LAT]

Last weekend there was a World Series by Renault event held at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. A perfect excuse, really, for Lotus Renault GP reserve driver Bruno Senna to get out on track in his F1 car between racing action to lay some rubber and entertain the crowd.

The kick here is that young Bruno recorded his antics on his mobile phone while out on track. The YouTube description even includes this delightful disclaimer, “Video made with my phone camera during the demo at Spa! Please note I drove within safe limits and not flat-out. Don’t use your phone and drive!!”

After the break you can see the view from inside and outside the car.

[Source: Lotus Renault GP]