Fernando Alonso says he intends to be present with Renault at a handful of grands prix this year as he continues to prepare for his Formula 1 return in 2021.
Renault confirmed in May that two-time champion Alonso will return to the squad from 2021, alongside Esteban Ocon, replacing McLaren-bound Daniel Ricciardo.
Alonso visited Renault’s Formula 1 facilities at Enstone and Viry-Chatillon earlier this week, carrying out meetings with senior figures, a seat fit and also undertook a simulator programme.
Alonso was present at several events with McLaren in 2019 – having taken up an ambassadorial role – but has not attended grands prix so far in 2020.
“The last couple of races were very exciting to watch, a lot of red flags, a lot of action, so I am looking forward to being back in the mix, to be there,” he said.
“Watching at home when these guys are at Monza and Mugello was spectacular, now there are some good tracks coming, Turkey, Portimao, Imola.
“I think the focus now is to follow what the team needs from my side – I guess there will be some simulator days, preparing next year, and also helping somehow the weekends this year.
“I guess I will come to a couple of races just to follow and understand the team trackside, and the weekend philosophy, Abu Dhabi will be a must, hopefully I can come to Imola which is close to my home in Switzerland, and I will be available for the team for anything they need.”
Renault’s form has improved across recent rounds, with Daniel Ricciardo fourth at Spa and Mugello, lifting the manufacturer to fifth in the standings.
“I think the team is in good shape for the future,” Alonso added.
“I think last few races were encouraging for everyone, for the team, for myself too.
“To see Renault back in a competitive manner is a good thing for the sport and I’ve been obviously delighted to see the performance improvements.
“We’ve still got a long way to go and the midfield is very tight so one weekend can feel good, the next weekend can be bad, [but] I think the guys have done an amazing job trackside.”
