McNish dumped for Montagny!

By role
September 25 2003

French Driver Frank Montagny has been chosen as te official test driver for the Renault F1 team for the 2004 season. Montagny, that this year has been Renault's 4th driver will be upgraded to 3rd driver for next season.

Renault will continue to be inside the Heathrow Agreement. This will mean that Montagny will be avle to take part of the two hours of testing at each race venue.

McNish who until recently has been Renault test driver will leave the team and his aim now is to land a driving seat in Formula 1.

"I am happy to welcome Franck as our third driver,” commented Mild Seven Renault F1 Team Managing Director Flavio Briatore. “In recent years, the third driver has become increasingly important to a team’s success, and our decision to promote Franck to this key role is a direct reflection of the work he has accomplished for us this year. He has worked hard behind the scenes testing for the F1 team, and he has put in accomplished race performances in the Nissan series. He has a bright future ahead of him."

"We also want to thank Allan McNish, who has done an outstanding job for us this year, and made a key contribution to our success. His work in the ‘Heathrow’ test sessions has been invaluable, and we hope that his achievements this year will propel him to greater things." Added Briatore.