Renault not expecting 'fantastic results' in 2016

 Renault is steeling itself for a difficult 2016 following its late decision to return as a team owner. The French car company last week finalised its takeover of Lotus, who finished sixth of 10 teams this year. Renault Sport boss Cyril Abiteboul said the team's situation meant "there is no way you can expect fantastic results". "We've a clear plan, not only for next year but for years to come. Next year will not only be a success if we're doing well on the track," he added. Abiteboul said 2016 would mainly be about building up the organisation and resolving the problems with Renault Sport's engine department, which has lagged behind standard-setters Mercedes since turbo hybrid engines were introduced to F1 in 2014. Renault will also have to work on integrating its dual bases in Enstone in Oxfordshire, where the chassis is built, and the engine base in Viry-Chatillon near Paris.

Renault completes Lotus takeover for 2016 F1 season

Renault has completed its takeover of the Lotus team and will return to Formula 1 as a constructor in 2016. The French car giant has finalised the deal and its lawyers told an insolvency judge: "We have the keys, so to speak." The move ends months of speculation and secures the future of the team based in Enstone in Oxfordshire. They have won four F1 drivers' titles - two as Benetton with Michael Schumacher in 1994 and 1995, and two as Renault with Fernando Alonso in 2005 and 2006. An insolvency petition that would have put the team into administration was formally dismissed. Renault sold the team to investment group Genii Capital at the end of 2009 after deciding to quit as a constructor, although it remained involved as an engine builder.

Renault completes Lotus takeover for 2016 F1 season

Renault has completed its takeover of the Lotus team and will return to Formula 1 as a constructor in 2016. The French car giant has finalised the deal and its lawyers told an insolvency judge: "We have the keys, so to speak." The move ends months of speculation and secures the future of the team based in Enstone in Oxfordshire. They have won four F1 drivers' titles - two as Benetton with Michael Schumacher in 1994 and 1995, and two as Renault with Fernando Alonso in 2005 and 2006. An insolvency petition that would have put the team into administration was formally dismissed. Renault sold the team to investment group Genii Capital at the end of 2009 after deciding to quit as a constructor, although it remained involved as an engine builder.