Renault has confirmed the recruitment of former FIA technical department chief Marcin Budkowski as its new Executive Director.
The FIA informed teams prior to the Malaysian Grand Prix that it had placed Budkowski on gardening leave, ostensibly for a three-month period, prompting widespread speculation that he was poised to join a Formula 1 outfit.
Renault duly confirmed on Friday that it has signed Budkowski, though no communication was made on when he will officially begin working for the team.
“There have been a lot of positive changes these last few months at Renault Sport Racing,” said Managing Director Cyril Abiteboul.
“We have an accelerated expansion at Enstone, the restructuring of our engine deployment from Viry with the supply of two top customer teams for 2018, three titles in a row in an increasingly competitive Formula E championship and other motor racing categories, and the arrival of new strategic partners.
“All of this is happening in a context where the seasons are longer and more intense.
“It was clear that the Renault Sport Racing management structure needed reinforcing.
“Marcin’s mission will be to continue the strengthening of Enstone to enable Renault to join the top Formula 1 teams by 2020, through relying on the proven personnel of the likes of Bob Bell, Nick Chester and Rob White.
“Marcin’s arrival is excellent news and further proof of our determination to achieve our goals.”
Budkowski’s previous position at the FIA granted him privileged access to technical data and ideas, with his departure to a team, now confirmed as Renault, prompting anger from rival squads.
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