Renault have confirmed that GP2 racer Romain Grosjean will replace Nelson Piquet. Grosjean s race seat within the team could only be confirmed after Renault s appeal against the Hungarian race stewards decision to suspend them from the European Grand Prix had been overturned by the FIA International Court of Appeal.
The news will be little surprise to anyone given that Grosjean is no stranger to F1 having been Renault s official reserve and test driver. Grosjean has been racing in GP2 this season, taking two victories but also becoming involved in several incidents.
“We are happy to give Romain the chance to start racing with the team,” team boss Flavio Briatore said. “He is an impressive young talent and we expect him to show his skills driving alongside Fernando as we take an aggressive approach to the second half of the season.
“We would also like to thank Nelson for his contribution during the time he has been with us and wish him all the best for the future.”
“I am very proud that the Renault F1 Team has given me the chance to become a race driver,” Grosjean commented. “I’m looking forward to driving the R29 and helping the team get the best results possible. It’s also an honour to be Fernando’s team-mate and to make my Formula 1 debut alongside a double world champion is especially motivating.”
GP2 driver Lucas di Grassi will now take over from Grosjean as Renault s official reserve driver.
