Renault: in or out?
Well, the manufacturer era is definitely over in F1, with only Ferrari and Mercedes left standing amongst the wreckage. Renault appear to have climbed up onto the fence, selling a share of their team to Genii Capital, but without giving any firm assurances as to whether they will continue in the sport after 2010. All respectable sources seem to think that they will pull out quietly at the end of next season, leaving another concern to take over the team.
It could also be that case that Renault want to revert to being an engine supplier as they will continue powering the Red Bull car next year and may continue to do so after that season. This is the situation that we had in the late 80's/early 90's where Renault successfully supplied Williams, contributing greatly to their race and championship successes.
As for the racing team, I'm sure they'll survive. After all they've been Toleman, Benetton and Renault; so I'm sure they can do a Doctor Who and regenerate once more. As for sponsorship, the cars may no longer be speeding fag packets any more; but there are plenty of soft drinks, printers, jewellery, free sim cards and phones to be sold.
Kobayashi confirmed at Sauber
Everyone's favourite mad Japanese driver has got himself a seat in Peter Sauber's revived team, on the strength of his two races deputising for Timo Glock at the end of last season. The craaaazy lad seemed to be the only new driver who could get the car to work without testing, plus he proved he could mix it with the best of them (and knock people off). This nutter is my man to watch next season.
