Flavio Briatore has offered his view on the possible departure of two-time champion Fernando Alonso. There is no question that losing Alonso would be difficult for Renault.Fernando won two titles with Flavio and Renault but it has been suggested that Honda and BMW are very keen of retaining Fernando’s services for 2009.
Renault managing director Flavio Briatore says it would not be the end of the world if double world champion Fernando Alonso leaves the team.
Renault are putting together a tempting package to keep the driver with the French team, but Honda and BMW are both eager to secure his services.
Briatore said: “I don’t know what the future is going to bring, and will have to see how the season works out, but, if Fernando isn’t with us next year, it won’t be treason.
“Renault should take a step forward with Fernando who, this year, has done great work. We are not a McLaren or Ferrari but, after them, our car is the fastest thanks to the fact that Fernando is again a leader.
“Everything that we do, we do it for him; we are transparent with Fernando and will continue to be.
“He is the reason why the car has improved from the start of the year, and especially since the race in Barcelona, thanks to the motivation that he has given to everyone.”
While it may not signal the end of the world for Renault’s F1 efforts, one has to ask just who is going to take Renault forward in 2009 if Fernando leaves? Nelson Piquet Jr? And whom else? Grosjean? That’s the equivelant of having two rookies in your cars in my opinion. If BMW are seriously considering Fernando, Flavio might do well to retain the services of Nick Heidfeld. Nick is a veteran who can help develop a car and seems a reasonable option. Other test drivers are out there as well. Klien comes to mind with Ant Davidson.
