Renault F1 team “motivated” by Red Bull, McLaren challenge 

Renault chief Cyril Abiteboul says the French manufacturer is “motivated” by the prospect of fighting customer Formula 1 teams Red Bull and McLaren in 2018.

On its return to F1 as a fully-fledged factory squad in 2016, Renault outlined its long-term ambitions of replicating its previous title success and producing a title-winning operation. 

After finishing sixth in the 2017 constructors’ championship and having made impressive gains towards the end of the year, Renault is confident of moving further up F1’s pecking order this season.

At the launch of its new challenger - the R.S.18 - on Tuesday, Abiteboul set Renault a clear target of closing the gap to leading teams Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull in 2018.

"Our strategy in Formula 1 is very clear. We are in Formula 1 as a full works team,” Abiteboul said. “The marketing value is associated to the works team and that’s clear. However, power unit technology is at the heart of what we do and what we offer. 

“Renault has an amazing track record of supplying engines to the best teams and best drivers, securing many successful results with Formula 1 teams, from Williams to Red Bull. It’s natural to continue that history and stay true to that legacy.”

The French outfit supplies engines to the Red Bull team, while McLaren will also run Renault power units for the first time in its history in 2018, following its switch from Honda. Abiteboul believes both teams will act as direct benchmarks for Renault in the upcoming campaign.

“It’s an honour to supply to teams as big as Red Bull and McLaren and is a recognition of the quality of our product and work that they have chosen Renault. 

“Of course, they are very strong competitors and that’s an extra challenge and motivation. They will clearly be our benchmarks for performance this season.”