Renault has undertaken changes within its aerodynamic department in the wake of its disappointing 2019 Formula 1 campaign.
Renault holds a low-key fifth in this year’s championship, under pressure from Toro Rosso and Racing Point, having failed to close the gap to the leading teams.
On Friday it announced that Head of Aerodynamics Peter Machin is leaving the team with immediate effect, by mutual agreement.
He will be replaced by Dirk de Beer, who previously worked at the team – under its Lotus guise – before spending stints in senior roles at Ferrari and Williams.
De Beer will be supported by a deputy who will join “from another team” in 2020; that position will be taken by Vince Todd on an interim basis.
Current Principal Aerodynamicist James Rodgers has been promoted to the newly-created role of Chief Aerodynamicist.
“In 2019 we have shown some strengths, but identified areas that needed reinforcement,” said Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul.
“After a rapid growth of our aerodynamic department and a modernisation of our equipment, the strengthening of the management layer of this key department will help us reap the benefits of our investments.
“This is particularly relevant as we enter a very important year in our midterm plan with the 2021 aerodynamic regulations now confirmed.”
Added Executive Director Marcin Budkowski, “We are delighted to welcome Dirk as Head of Aerodynamics.
“His proven technical and management skills make him the perfect profile to lead such a large and complex department.
“James has demonstrated a strong ability to generate performance and this new role will enable him to steer the aerodynamic development of all our car projects.
“These changes are the next step in the restructuring of Renault F1 Team’s Chassis operation in Enstone and I am confident that they will allow us to resume our progress towards the front of the grid.”
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