Renault F1 Managing Dir Cyril Abiteboul said that the team has "opened discussions" with F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone over its future
in F1, and has
"ruled out making an early exit," according to Rencken & Barretto of AUTOSPORT. The French manufacturer is "considering whether to leave the sport, remain as an engine supplier or create its own works outfit again when its supply deal with Red Bull and Toro Rosso finishes" at the end of '16. Renault Chair & CEO Carlos Ghosn, Renault Sport F1 President CEO Jerome Stoll and Abiteboul met with Ecclestone in Monaco to talk about its position in F1. Abiteboul: "I think the meeting was of use. It is no secret we have a binding contract until the end of 2016 so, firstly, it was to reassure everyone that we will honor that contract. There is no doubt." Part of "the reason behind Renault reassessing its position" is that it "wants to ensure" it is maximizing its brand exposure. Abiteboul said, "We're looking at the return on our investment, at the value we get. We want more value for what we are doing in the sport" (AUTOSPORT, 6/1).
