Should Renault stay in F1?

Renault is truly a historic team, and the appointment of a new CEO for the group will quickly raise questions about the French brand's presence in Formula 1.

Renault's place in motorsport, and in particular in Formula 1, is undisputed. Although the French brand only entered the championship in the late 1970s, its sporadic involvement over the decades has enabled it to win 23 titles in the drivers', constructors' and engine manufacturers' categories.

Since its return in 2016 as a full-fledged constructor and engine manufacturer, results have fallen short of expectations, with most observers describing the seasons as “disappointing.” The team felt relatively secure when Carlos Ghosn, who was the first to bring Renault back to F1, and his deputy Thierry Bolloré were at the helm. Starting in July, however, a new management team will take over, led by Italian Luca de Meo. Former CEO of Seat, Mr. de Meo has worked for brands closely linked to motorsports, such as Audi, Toyota, and Fiat, but his experience is mainly in marketing. It remains to be seen whether he will consider Formula 1 the ideal platform to restore Renault's image after a series of management upheavals and the Ghosn scandal. With electric vehicles becoming the new benchmark in the industry, could Renault turn to Formula E? The French manufacturer abandoned the series after its fifth season, leaving its partner Nissan to continue the adventure while Renault focused on F1, a venture that has not yet yielded the expected success. A thorough audit is planned for 2020, as confirmed by interim director Clotilde Deblos. This audit will scrutinize all strategic plans, including Renault's involvement in Formula 1. Historically, Formula 1 has relied on manufacturers like Renault, and these manufacturers have relied on the sport. The real challenge lies in performance: Renault cannot remain in the premier series simply to fill the starting grid. The team must quickly get back on the podium to prove that its participation brings real added value in terms of marketing and brand image. Ultimately, it is on the track that Renault's future in Formula 1 will be decided. Renault's history in Formula 1: