Renault F1 thought they could build their project to regain the world title on Daniel Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon, but it is another duo who will have to take care of it from 2021 and, especially, from 2022, when the new F1 will arrive after a one year postponement.
In the columns of the L’Equipe newspaper, Cyril Abiteboul admits that he has “not learned overnight” Daniel Ricciardo’s departure from McLaren.
Can Esteban Ocon then become the pilot who will lead this return to world titles?
“I don’t want to put more pressure on him even if he is ready to take it on. It’s up to him to show that we can count on him.”
According to his results, Abiteboul could very well choose to appoint a young driver by his side but he admits that “The team needs an experienced pilot, capable of carrying out the project, and above all with great motivation.”
Fernando Alonso is a well-known and recognized candidate but the media has launched two other names: Valtteri Bottas and Sebastian Vettel.
“Valtteri is someone with depth. He was able to carry the boat alongside Hamilton. Not everyone could have done it. Nico Rosberg gave up. [Il a été champion], it’s true but at what price? He then stopped F1. Bottas has not yet won but he is taking it and it is not for everyone. “
As for Vettel, “He’s a free person. And an extremely motivated Vettel interests us,” recognizes Abiteboul.
The salary demanded by the German could be an obstacle. “I will not go into economic considerations even if our priorities are now to invest in infrastructure.”
When can we expect an announcement? Abiteboul wants a pilot who has “motivation” because “We don’t want to go last on the driver’s market. We want to find someone who commits with us for the long term. Our calendar is not to go after Mercedes but that doesn’t mean no no longer say it’s tomorrow. “
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