Alonso and Renault: a return to the past

No, you didn't use a time machine, Fernando Alonso and Renault team up again in Formula 1. The news of his return in 2021 shakes the world of F1 this Wednesday, July 8, and already, more or less joyful memories are resurfacing in the minds of supporters. 

Little Bull of Asturias (2002-2004)

The native of Oviedo in the Principality of Asturias began his relationship with the French manufacturer at the turn of the 1st century through an Italian: Flavio Briatore. The fanciful team principal of the Benetton team in Formula XNUMX takes the Spaniard under his wing as he makes his way through the promotion formulas.

Having become his manager, Flavio Briatore placed him in the modest Minardi structure in 2001, so that he could prove himself in a peaceful environment, without the pressure of results every Sunday. Convinced by the “integral” behavior of his foal, the businessman decided to pass him into his fold as a test pilot in 2002.

Not even 21 years old, Fernando Alonso therefore takes care of the development of the Renault R202, at a time when private tests were boring like mini pastries at breakfast. In the summer of 2002, Renault promoted him to the role alongside Jarno Trulli. 

The disgruntled spirits doubt the maturity of the young talent, but the evil tongues are silent from the second test in Malaysia. At 21 years and 236 days old, Fernando Alonso became the youngest pole-sitter in F1 on the Sepang circuit:

His extremely incisive driving style works wonders at the wheel of the R23, whose V10 engine is placed at 111 degrees for a center of gravity lowered as much as possible. The consecration came in Hungary in the heat of August, where he converted pole into victory, while inflicting a one-lap lead on Michael Schumacher ! 

“I’m only 22 years old and I hope this success inspires others,” he then rejoices. Sixth in the championship, he is ahead of his colleague Jarno Trulli by 22 points. Unfortunately, progress came to a halt in 2004. Rushing errors punctuated his career while he was dominated by Jarno Trulli until Flavio decided to unceremoniously fire the latter in July.

Glory (2005-2006)

The engineers from Viry-Châtillon andenstone produced the R2005 in 25, a car almost perfect, notably equipped with an innovative front suspension. The manufacturer war between Michelin and Bridgestone leads F1 to ban tire changes during races. The Clermont-based firm is taking advantage of this while the Japanese brand is getting bogged down. 

In a season where McLaren are the main rivals, Fernando Alonso wins three of the first four meetings. As a symbol, he beats the reference Michael Schumacher in front of the fans at Imola after a breathtaking duel. After seven successes, Spain has its first F1 world champion, while setting another early record. 

Despite a move to the V8 block, Renault remained the benchmark in 2006. This time, the “Kaiser” proved to be its main opponent. A series of four consecutive victories was disrupted by two retirements: loose wheel in Hungary and engine failure in Italy. Salvation will come from a plume of smoke escaping from Michael Schumacher's Ferrari 248 at Suzuka. And two titles! 

However, good stories all come to an end. In the 2005-2006 off-season, Fernando Alonso signed an incredible contract with Ron Dennis to join McLaren for three years from 2007. To make it short, the idyll will confront the explosive Lewis Hamilton, to Spygate and to a quickly-consumed bickering with the English boss.

Disappointing first return (2008-2009)

With his tail between his legs, Fernando Alonso accepts Flavio Briatore's invitation to wear the colors of the Losange again. But like the blue and yellow livery replaced by less inspired decor, Renault is in decay. The R28 is not a lightning bolt, and the double champion has not scored a podium in 14 Grands Prix…

Frustrated, Renault F1 Team officials found a solution during the first Singapore GP, literally taking Nelson Piquet Jr into the wall. Thanks to the neutralization that followed, Renault benefited from an excellent pit stop strategy from its sister car, that of Fernando Alonso. This success will remain tainted with a whiff of scandal, although the Spaniard was relieved of all responsibility by the FIA. 

The Crashgate scandal should not taint the victory, acquired regularly, in Japan during the following event. Over the last five GPs, Fernando Alonso is even the best performer in the peloton with 43 points collected! 

In 2009, the aerodynamic revolution and the arrival of Kers were two opportunities missed by Renault engineers. The R29 gives no satisfaction, and Fernando Alonso drags his troubles down to ninth place in the championship. 

In the eye of the Crashgate storm, Renault decides to withdraw from F1 at the end of the 2009 campaign. Fernando Alonso is free to move around, and can sail towards Italy, where the Scuderia awaits him like the Messiah . The adventure won't be as perfect as expected, but that's another long story.