Renault returns to the forefront

Renault saw both of its cars finish in the points at the Hungaroring circuit during the 2008 Hungarian Grand Prix, a strong result that allows the French team to take fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship. Starting 7th and 10th on the grid, Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet both had a strong start, overtaking several competitors. After a tense first lap, the Spaniard is in sixth place while Nelson, after running slightly wide, is back in tenth position.

Fernando Alonso keeps pace with Räikkönen’s Ferrari in the first half of the race, and Nelson, with a heavier load, takes advantage of a longer first stint that allows him to climb back up in the pack.

5th and 7th after their second pit stop, Fernando and Nelson take advantage of Massa’s retirement to gain a place in the final laps of the race.

With eight points on the board, Renault reclaims fifth place in the world championship and now aims to take advantage of the three-week summer break to prepare for the next European Grand Prix under the best conditions.

Fernando Alonso – 4th:

« We fought well, we were in the rhythm and the car responded quite well, which is encouraging for the rest of the championship. We scored big points which is satisfying even though we might have made it to the podium today! We need to continue our efforts, but we are moving in the right direction. »

Nelson Piquet – 6th:

I’m happy with my result this weekend, I scored big points which is encouraging for the rest of the championship. I had a good start but unfortunately made a small mistake on the first lap which didn’t allow me to keep the benefit of the two places I had gained and it clearly shows that at this level, we cannot afford to make mistakes! I keep learning and I’m determined to make further progress by Valencia at the end of the month!

Flavio Briatore – General Manager Renault:

« This is an encouraging result and a strong outcome for the team today. Both of our drivers did a remarkable job and we are preparing for a particularly aggressive second half of the season to secure fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship!

Pat Symonds – Executive Director of Engineering:

« It’s a solid result for the team and probably our best race this season. We had to run an aggressive race and be very vigilant in our race management right to the end. The result and the points scored today are a great reward for the team and the efforts made in our factories! »

According to a Renault F1 Team statement