Renault Sport UK today revealed its new Driver Training Programme, which has been created by the Renault F1 Team Human Resources Centre exclusively for drivers of the three Renault Sport-promoted series.
The launch took place at the Renault F1 Team headquarters in Enstone, Oxfordshire, and was attended by drivers from the Michelin Formula Renault UK, Protyre Formula Renault BARC and ELF Renault Clio Cup with Michelin Championships.
The scheme will offer Renault Sport drivers in the UK a direct link with the Renault F1 Team, and has been designed “to give young, aspiring drivers the chance to develop their physical and psychological conditioning on their way to becoming professional racing drivers and succeeding in top-flight motorsport.”
Drivers who sign-up to the scheme will be given a tailored exercise plan and nutritional advice , as well as regular fitness assessments throughout the season. They will be able to use the advanced gym equipment owned by the F1 team.
Renault Sport UK Championship Promotor Simon North explained how this will help up-and-coming drivers. “To reach the top in motorsport takes more than just an ability on the track or setting up a car. Drivers must become highly tuned athletes, conditioning not only their bodies but also their minds.
“Renault Sport Championships have already produced a host of stars including Formula One World Champions Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Räikkönen and we believe this new partnership between our drivers and the Renault F1 Team will continue this as well as provide them with their first step on the ladder to a career in Formula One.”
Head Coach Daryl Coombes added: “The challenge facing young drivers aiming to reach top-level motorsport is tougher than ever. We therefore feel it is our responsibility to support them as much as possible by developing their skills both on and off the race-track. It's about helping them mature as individuals and racing drivers with the ultimate goal of getting them ready to make the step up to Formula One in the future.”
The opening rounds of the Michelin Formula Renault UK Championship and ELF Renault Clio Cup with Michelin take place at Hampshire's Thruxton circuit on 3rd/4th April and the season opener for the Protyre Formula Renault BARC Championship takes place at Brands Hatch on 17/18th April.
