Renault: Magnussen Confirmed and a New Organizational Structure in Place
During a press conference intended to present its motorsport program, Renault confirmed the appointment of Jolyon Palmer and Kevin Magnussen for the 2016 season. The Frenchman, Esteban Ocon, will be a reserve driver.
After the announcement of Pastor Maldonado’s departure, made by the main party concerned, Renault still had a driver to confirm before starting its campaign that marks its major return as a constructor.
Jolyon Palmer had been announced a few weeks earlier, and the rumor was that the Dane, Kevin Magnussen, would be alongside him. This rumor was confirmed at the press conference held in Paris by the French manufacturer, which aimed to present, overall, its program and investment in motorsport for the coming years.
Furthermore, the young Frenchman, Esteban Ocon, has been confirmed in a reserve driver role and will therefore be present at the Grand Prix to cover any possible absence of the two main drivers.
More broadly, the management of the Formula 1 team has been entrusted to the experienced Frédéric Vasseur. He will be supported by Cyril Abiteboul, general manager of Renault Sport Racing, and Bob Bell, who has been assigned the role of technical director. Under his command, Nick Chester will be in charge of the chassis, and Rémi Taffin will take care of the engine department.
New commercial partnerships are also being established with companies such as Microsoft and EMC, former partners of Lotus, as well as Bell & Ross and Devialet, all of which are expected to feature on Renault’s new livery. The one presented at the conference may not be final.
