Two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso is set to make a sensational return to the Renault F1 team. The 39-year-old is replacing Daniel Ricciardo, who is moving to McLaren. Reportedly Alonso has signed a two-year deal to cover the 2021 and 2022 seasons. An official announcement confirming the news is set for July 7(Wednesday).
The Spaniard is regarded as one of the most talented drivers of his generation. He had won both his world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006. He will partner Esteban Ocon from the 2021 season. Alonso will contest this year’s Indy 500 with the Arrow McLaren SP team.
Alonso has also won 32 Grand Prix, which puts him sixth on the all-time list. He is regarded as one of the greatest racing drivers in history. Alonso also narrowly missed out on another three World Championships – in 2007 with McLaren, and in 2010 and 2012 with Ferrari. The last race he won was in 2013, with his most-recent podium achieved a year later.
Alonso has pursued victory in the Le Mans endurance race with Toyota, which he achieved in 2018 and last year. He is intent on winning the Indy 500. A win at Indianapolis would mean Alonso becomes just the second driver after Graham Hill to claim the ‘Triple Crown’ of victories at the Monaco GP, Le Mans 24 Hours, and Indy 500.
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