Renault are keeping expectations in check for their return to racing in 2016, with interim managing director Cyril Abiteboul warning against expecting big things from the team.
Renault will return to manufacturer status following its takeover of the Lotus F1 Team, and whilst details of their return, such as management and team name won’t be released until February, Abiteboul has made it clear that they are setting realistic goals.
“I think we need to be honest,” he said of their 2016 prospects. “When you decide to go F1 racing on December 18, there is no way that you can expect to have fantastic results.
“But we are coming here with a clear plan, not only for next year but also years to come.
“We have given a time frame [of three years] in the statement that was communicated by [chairman] Carlos Ghosn, and we need to be pragmatic. We know it is going to take time.”
Renault’s main aim is to ensure everything is operating as it should, whilst Abiteboul expects progress on the engine side after disappointing results in 2014 and 2015.
“There are many things that we want to do well next year, starting with the structure,” he explained.
“How well do we integrate the structure? How do we integrate the people, the organisation? How do we put in place the links between the two entities? The culture, the mindset? How do we start catching up properly on the engine?
“We want an engine that is completely reliable at the start of the season and at the first test. We want to make substantial steps.
“The target for next year, it is not just about scoring points in the championship. If that is your question, we need to be humble in our expectations for next year.”
