Renault F1 in slow motion

Fernando Alonso et Romain Grosjean eliminated in Q1, this is an unprecedented fact. This is even something new for the Spanish driver, who had always managed to qualify at least in Q2 during each qualifying session this season.

Capable of doing much better than what their times show, Romain Grosjean and Fernando Alonso note a car who cannot compete with others.

« We are not very competitive, confided the Spanish driver after his elimination in Q1. During three to four races, on specific circuits, we performed small miracles on Saturday. We are back here on a “normal” circuit, we are no longer competitive. »

For his part, Romain Grosjean recognizes euphemistically that the R29 cannot make any splashes. “ Both Renault out from Q1, we expected it. The irony is that I am hampered by Fernando in my two best laps. The strategy was not great. And the car is no longer among the best today. »

While Renault, in 2010, will have changed a lot after this difficult 2009 season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix does not seem to bring any reason for hope for the diamond firm.

But, with a Fernando Alonso who already has the spirit at home Ferrari and a team that wants to turn the page on a season rich in disillusionment and bad publicity, Renault does not seem to have the means to shine during the Grand Prix dusk.

Romain Grosjean, who knows that his place is in danger, would nevertheless like to show what he is capable of at the wheel of a competitive single-seater. Poorly qualified and loaded with gasoline – the heaviest on the field – the Franco-Swiss will however try to put his best foot forward on Sunday. “ It will be important not to make any mistakes tomorrow and to finish as high as possible », declares the 2007 champion of Formula 3 Euro Series.

Beyond the competition, Romain Grosjean is also ready to fight behind the scenes. Even if certain drivers (Timo Glock, Heikki Kovalainen) are expected to replace him, the No. 8 is determined not to be left on the sidelines. “ I am very motivated to stay at Renault, he told AFP. It would be stupid to judge (myself) on seven races which, what's more, were not the easiest of the season, with a car which has declined in performance. I will fight until the end. If the story ended there, it would be a complete waste. »