Fernando Alonso will return to Formula One next season with Renault, the team with which he won his two world titles.
The French team announced Wednesday that the 38-year-old Spanish driver will replace Daniel Ricciardo, who moves to McLaren next year.
“Fernando will join Renault for the next few seasons,” Renault said. “This is a decision that is bold and meaningful for the future.”
Renault, a poor performer in F1 last season, did not specify the number of campaigns with which it signed Alonso. He was champion with the team in 2005 and 2006.
“We have had a relationship throughout my career very, very close and sharing many of the values that have led us to racing,” said Alonso.
“I am motivated, happy and stronger than ever,” he added.
Alonso left McLaren and F1 at the end of 2018 to focus on completing the triple crown of motorsports.
With a victory in the Monaco Grand Prix on his record, Alonso proceeded to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the legendary endurance race. The Indianapolis 500 is his unfinished business.
Alonso has 32 victories in his F1 career and is considered one of the most talented drivers of his era, alongside six-time champion Lewis Hamilton.
“I have principles and ambitions that align with the team’s project,” said Alonso. “His progress this winter lends credibility towards the 2022 season.”
Alonso will compete alongside Esteban Ocon, a 23-year-old French rider.
“I trust, there is capacity, there are facilities and there is investment. There are all the ingredients in Renault, I’m calm, “said Alonso, getting excited about the rule changes for 2022. Ap (HN)