Renault will bring a new front-wing to the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend as it continues to battle McLaren for midfield honours.
Renault currently trails its customer team by 33 points following a tough time in Singapore and Russia, but remains confident it can close that gap in the final five races of the 2019 Formula 1 season.
In a bid to claw back some valuable points this weekend, the team will introduce a minor upgrade package aimed at improving front-end grip, which is an important factor around the old-school Suzuka circuit.
Formula 1 2019: Constructors' Standings | Drivers' Standings
"It’s very long at 5.807km, with lots of elevation changes, long straights ending in tight chicanes or hairpins and interesting corners," explained Renault technical director Nick Chester.
"It’s a challenge to get right, requiring strong front-end grip for Sector 1 with high speed change of direction but with enough stability to give driver confidence.
"We are bringing a new front-wing to Suzuka. We also have a new chassis wing – externally the changes are pretty subtle, but we expect more downforce and grip as a result."
Both Nico Hulkenberg and Daniel Ricciardo know the importance of performing well this weekend to achieve the team's aim of finishing ahead of McLaren.
"It’s obvious we missed out on points in Singapore and Russia and that’s frustrating given our competitive pace and qualifying positions," added Hulkenberg.
"We’re still in the battle for fourth. Our Sunday’s especially we have to be cleaner, but that’s down to a range of factors: on my side, on the team’s side and some things we can’t control. We have to target big points in Japan."
Ricciardo added: "Our focus is on Japan and ensuring we do a good job there. It’s important we come away with something to keep in the race for fourth. We know it’s going to be tough, but we won’t give up."
