The Renault F1 Team is introducing a new young driver programme, which will be known as the ‘RF1 Driver Programme’. The initiative will give young drivers the opportunity to work closely with the team as they continue to develop their skills as professional racing drivers.

The new programme continues Renault’s tradition of supporting promising talents by investing in drivers who have already demonstrated their skills in the junior ranks. Drivers selected by the team to join the RF1 Driver Programme will continue to compete in the series they are already involved in for 2010 with clear performance targets. They will benefit from the support and guidance of Renault to help them develop as talented racing drivers.

For 2010 the RF1 Driver Programme includes Ho-Pin Tung, Jérôme d'Ambrosio, and Jan Charouz. Ho-Pin is also named Renault F1 Team Third Driver, while Jérôme and Jan will act as reserve drivers for the Renault F1 Team. They will have the chance to complete fitness training at Enstone, attend meetings, and observe the team at races and test sessions.

Speaking about the Programme, Team Principal Eric Boullier explained....

“With the current testing restrictions, the challenge facing young drivers aiming to reach Formula One 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 racetrack. 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.”