Renault’s future in Formula 1 remains undecided, with Renault chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn claiming “all options are open” as they debate what path to take.
The French manufacturer is currently an engine supplier to Red Bull and Toro Rosso but has complained that it isn’t getting the marketing return it deserves, particularly during their hybrid-V6 crisis.
Therefore the company is currently deciding its F1 future and whether it should keep the status quo, quit the sport or return to team ownership.
“Everything is open,” Ghosn told Motorsport during the London round of the new all-electric Formula E racing series in which Renault is heavily involved.
“We are really reviewing the situation, we have different options,” he stated.
The 61-year-old, who is also chairman and CEO of Nissan, says Renault’s future in F1 also depends on what direction the sport takes, with a final decision on 2017’s rules expected before the end of the year.
“In Formula 1, there are various options that we keep analysing, but it doesn’t just depend on us, it also depends on the Formula 1 governing body.
“There’s the matter of TV rights, there’s the matter of return on investment, but I think by the end of the year, we will take a firm stance,” he added.
“Renault has a long tradition of taking part in motorsport. Formula 1 is part of it. If we could continue in better conditions, it would be the best option. But we need good conditions, which is not guaranteed yet.
“We still have not made a decision but we will make a decision soon. All the options are open.”
His comments came on the same day he announced that Renault will increase its involvement in the Formula E series.
