Fernando Alonso will continue his preparations for his 2021 Formula 1 return when he tests Renault’s R.S.20 at Barcelona on Tuesday.
It was announced in May that Alonso will return to Formula 1 after a two-year absence and do so with the Renault outfit, soon to be rebranded as Alpine, with which he won his two titles.
Alonso increased his preparation in the aftermath of his Indianapolis 500 duties and has visited Renault’s facilities, as well as carry out work in the simulator.
As part of a filming day at the Spanish Grand Prix Alonso will get behind the wheel of Renault’s current car.
Under Formula 1 regulations running is limited to 100km and must be carried out on Pirelli’s promotional tyres.
“Returning behind the wheel is going to be an amazing feeling,” said Alonso.
“After two years not driving in Formula 1, I’m really looking forward to it. It’s going to be like a new beginning, getting surprised about the speed of the car, the braking performance, the corner speed, a lot of things which will surprise me once again.
“It’s very special to be back in Barcelona, I remember my first test with Benetton in the year 2000, it was in Barcelona.
“It’s going to be at the same circuit 20 years after that first test, it’s going to be one of the last opportunities with a car named after the Renault brand because next year it’s going to change.
“I feel really privileged, I’m looking forward to it, very excited.”
Alonso’s first Formula 1 test since early 2019, when he drove for McLaren in Bahrain, comes just two days after Renault’s return to the podium positions.
Daniel Ricciardo finished third at the Nürburgring to deliver Renault its first podium since its Formula 1 comeback in 2016.
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