MADRID, Spain (Ticker) -- Two-time Formula One champion Fernando
Alonso signed a two-year contract extension with Renault on
Wednesday.
The deal will keep Alonso, 27, with Renault through the 2010
season.
Alonso returned to Renault after a disappointing 2007 season
with McLaren, which terminated the Spaniard's contract on
November 2, 2007.
But Alonso, who won back-to-back F1 titles with Renault in 2005
and 2006, struggled this past season with the French team,
collecting just two victories en route to a disappointing
fifth-place finish in the series standings.
"After a difficult start to the season, we have overcome our
difficulties and constantly improved our performances," Alonso
said. "My back-to-back wins in Singapore and Japan, and my
recent second-place finish in Brazil, have proved how
competitive we can be.
"In the past we have won championships together, as well as
going through tough moments. But we are now determined to show
that we can repeat that success together in the coming seasons."
Renault also said that Nelson Piquet Jr. will remain with the
team next season, leaving its driver lineup unchanged for 2009.
Piquet, 23, struggled throughout his rookie season, recording
just two top-five finishes and placing 12th in the standings.
"Obviously I am delighted to have the opportunity to race for
Renault for a second year," the Brazilian said. "Although I
have had a tough year, I have learned a lot from my rookie
season and I will aim to put that experience to good use next
season.
"I want to thank the team for their support this year and for
the trust they have shown in me for the future."