Fernando Alonso is returning to F1 in 2021 with Renault on a multi-year spell. The Spaniard left the sport at the end of 2018 following a disappointing 4-year campaign at McLaren, supplied by Honda and Renault.

Rumours from Spain regarding Alonso’s comeback quickly spread over the last 48 hours and have now become official. Intense speculations started circulating during the lockdown, as it turned out that Renault and Alonso had sealed a pre-agreement for 2021.

Current Renault driver Daniel Ricciardo is walking out of the Enstone-based team, having signed for McLaren. The Australian will fill in the shoes of Carlos Sainz, whose 2021 move to Ferrari was confirmed in May.

Renault team principal Cyril Abiteboul welcomes the Spaniard prior to his third stint with the French team.

"The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field. His presence in our team is a formidable asset on the sporting level but also for the brand to which he is very attached. The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans make him a natural choice. In addition to past successes, it is a bold mutual choice as well as a project for the future. His experience and determination will enable us to get the best out of each other. He will also bring to our team, which has grown very fast, a culture of racing and winning to overcome hurdles together. Alongside Esteban, his mission will be to help Renault DP World F1 Team prepare for the 2022 season in the best possible conditions.”

Fernando Alonso regards his Renault comeback as a 'source of pride', aiming to return to the highest level. "I have principles and ambitions in line with the team’s project. Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives for the 2022 season and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates" he said.

OFFICIAL NEWS

🏁 Fernando Alonso joins Renault DP World F1 Team 🏁
Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season.

👉 https:/t.co/yjnnGHh8Yb #RSspirit @alo_oficial @OconEsteban pic.twitter.com/Qe0WfBazzN

— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) July 8, 2020 " rel="general">

OFFICIAL NEWS

🏁 Fernando Alonso joins Renault DP World F1 Team 🏁
Renault DP World F1 Team is pleased to confirm Fernando Alonso alongside Esteban Ocon in its driver line-up for the 2021 season.

👉 https://t.co/yjnnGHh8Yb #RSspirit @alo_oficial @OconEsteban pic.twitter.com/Qe0WfBazzN

— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) July 8, 2020