Renault select four drivers for '02 RDD programme.

Renault have today announced the four young drivers selected to join the Renault Driver Development programme (RDD) for 2002.

The RDD has been conceived as an integral part of Renault's return to Formula One, and aims to nurture high-potential young drivers within a tailor-made development programme.

Drawing on Renault's strong global presence at the different levels of motor racing, the Programme will provide the drivers with comprehensive training in the key skills of modern motor racing, with the aim of integrating the very best into the Renault F1 team.

The team released the following statement:

"We are pleased to announce that following a two-day test at the Estoril circuit in Portugal last October, four young drivers were selected to join the Renault Driver Development programme (RDD) for 2002."

"Eric Salignon from France, Robert Kubica from Poland, Fabio Carbone of Brazil and Dutchman Carlo Van Dam have been unanimously chosen by a jury of experts which included former Grand Prix winner Jacques Laffite."

"The four drivers will compete in different categories according to their age and experience. Next year, Carlo Van Dam will compete in Go Kart Super A, Eric Salignon and Robert Kubica in the Formula Renault Eurocup as well as racing in a national championship, while Fabio Carbone will participate in the F3 Championship. The tailor-made programmes aim to develop these young drivers into potential champions of the future."

Bruno Michel, RDD Manager said: "All the candidates who attended the test were extremely talented and motivated. It was therefore a difficult choice for us, based not only on driving skills, but also maturity, adaptability and the ability to realise their potential."