F109 Countdown: Renault

Renault:
2008 Results
Best Finish: 1st (Fernando Alonso x2)
Points Scored: 80
Championship Position: 4th
2009 Drivers: Fernando Alonso & Nelson Piquet Junior

The French team definitely feel under the adage of a season of two halves in 2008. More than any other team, Renault benefitted from maintaining development on their challenger as last season dragged on. Their car went from one that could just about make points into a race winning contender.

But the question remains – will their late 2008 push affect their opportunities in 2009. Many of the teams around them gave up focusing while Renault kept on pushing the development. For a team in Renault’s position, it might be considered an odd decision. I suppose one reason for it was to show Alonso they could take him back to the top of the podium.

A feat they achieved twice last year. The team has been quick to hum and haw about their 2009 credentials, like so many others. Will they offer Alonso a title contending car? That is always up for debate. Honestly, even if Renault had spent half a season developing the car, I would be sceptical. They have claimed in the past that they have devoted development time to the next year, only to fall flat on their faces.

If they give Fernando Alonso a car that can get a sniff of a win, you can be sure the Spaniard will take it. He may have his critics, but there is no denying his talent. At the moment, I think he is the best all round racer in the sport. While his Singapore victory required some luck, he still had to make build the gap. In Japan, Alonso looked at his imperialistic best. I expect more of the same from Alonso, who will no doubt have the hunger and desire to prove to his doubters that he is still one of the world’s best.

He will once more be partnered by Nelson Piquet Junior. The Brazilian is one of the drivers I feel is in last chance row. A late season surge in performance probably saved his career, which at one point looked like it might end before the season did. It isn’t like Renault would be troubled to find a replacement, with any number of youngsters under contract to the French team.

In some ways, it is often best to go with what you know, rather than another unknown quantity. As I have said numerous times, when there are big changes to the regulations, it is often best to try to maintain as much continuity as possible. Still, I feel that if Piquet fails to deliver in the first half of the season, he may find himself on the outside looking in.