Rumors: Fernando Alonso closer to sign with Renault 

Written by David on November 07th, 2007 at 4:56 pmLast Update: November 07th, 2007 at 4:56 pm

Fernando Alonso and Giancarlo FisichellaFernando Alonso and Renault are close to reuniting ahead of the 2008 Formula One season. Even if the Spaniard, who was recently released from his McLaren contract, did not meet Flavio Briatore’s Tuesday deadline, reports indicate that the pair have nonetheless nearly agreed a deal for next year.

The Spanish daily sports newspaper Marca claims that 26 year old Alonso’s final decision is still ‘a few days’ away, as negotiations continue smoothly. Alonso had earlier baulked at Briatore’s insistence on a two or three-year agreement, but it is understood that the double world champion will instead be free to leave Renault after a single season if the team fails to meet certain minimal performance and results criteria.

Therefore, in the event that Renault endures another uncompetitive season in 2008, Alonso can still defect to Ferrari or BMW Sauber in 2009. Britain’s The Guardian, meanwhile, reports on Wednesday that if Alonso signs for Renault he will be partnered by Nelson Piquet Jr, with Heikki Kovalainen ‘the most likely candidate’ to fill Alonso’s seat at McLaren. The newspaper said 34-year-old Italian veteran ‘Giancarlo Fisichella has been told there is no place for him next year.’

No comments yet. Be the first.


Leave a Reply