GreenBkk.com Formula 1 | Renault F1 future safe, says boss Eric Boullier

Renault F1 future safe, says boss Eric Boullier

Page last updated at 14:13 GMT, Wednesday, 29 June 2011 15:13 UK

By Ross Heaton

BBC Oxford

The long-term future of the Oxfordshire-based Renault F1 team is not in doubt according to the team principal Eric Boullier.

Boullier took over at Renault from Flavio Briatore

Articles in certain sections of the motorsport press had questioned the financial wellbeing of the company.

But Boullier told BBC Radio Oxford's Blood, Sweat and Tyres programme: "The future is very clear and bright.

"We have solid sponsors, we have solid owners with a good financial background, we have some good plans."

Boullier has questioned the motivation of stories which alluded to potential financial problems.

He said: "I understand there is some jealousy around in the paddock and some people who want to tease us.

"Affecting the morale of the people obviously was their target which was a bit naughty."

The team, who have their headquarters in Enstone and were formerly owned by French car manufacturer Renault, were bought by Genii Capital in 2009.

"Obviously there is a transition time. A lot of change for a big company like this. Time will show that we are right and that we are strong," Boullier said.

The Frenchman took over from Flavio Briatore at Renault in the wake of the race-fixing scandal that rocked F1 and Boullier admitted he had had to work hard to lift the morale of the 500-strong workforce in West Oxfordshire.

He said: "I think it was crucial and vital for this team to get back on track and to think with a new ambition.

"The race fixing scandal was affecting the morale here a lot because people here are very good competitors. They are doing Formula 1 for racing not for scandals.

"The only purpose here was to bring some fresh air, ambition, and to make sure this good bunch of people can stand up and race again."

Renault have had to do without injured driver Robert Kubica because of a rallying accident this year but Boullier feels that they are making progress in 2011.

"I have enjoyed a great start with two podiums in a row. It is obviously very challenging but it is good to see our boys here deliver a good car and a competitive car," he said.

"The racing is also very good this year. The spectacle is good, the show is good for the fans and I think Formula 1 has a perfect cocktail."

Credit: BBC (www.bbc.co.uk)