45 years of Renault in F1: the seven lives of the Losange

45 years ago today, on July 16, 1977, Renault took part in its first Formula 1 Grand Prix, at Silverstone. The first race of a very long series for the Diamond brand.

Published on 16/07/2022 à 18:27

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45 years of Renault in Formula 1: the seven lives of the Losange

On July 16, 1977, the Renault adventure in Formula 1 began at Silverstone © DPPI

If July 14 is a national holiday, July 16 is also an important date in the history of France. 45 years ago, on the Silverstone circuit, a UFO appeared on the starting grid. Her name ? There Renault RS01, mockingly nicknamed by our British friends the “yellow teapot”. However, this car will mark the first lines of a great story between Renault and the Formula 1. Still present in 2022 via the stable Alpine, the Diamond brand has had a long adventure in the premier category of motorsport. Many highs, many lows, “I love you, me neither”: a look back at Renault’s 45 years in Formula 1.

1977 – 1985: Renault, turbo innovation

When Renault appeared for the first time in Formula 1, its arrival had the effect of a small earthquake. For the first time, a turbocharged engine will start a Grand Prix at Silverstone. Developed by Jean-Pierre Jabouille, the national management's in-house driver, the RS01 surprises with its small 1500 cm3 supercharged engine. A 100% French car, with Michelin tires and the Elf partnership.

If the innovation has the merit of being daring, it will be necessary to wait two years for it to work properly. After having a series of abandonments in 1977 and 1