Hungarian GP: Renault race notes

Today at the Hungaroring, Fernando Alonso became the youngest ever winner in the history of Formula 1, the first Spaniard to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix, and offered Renault its first victory since returning to the sport last season. From pole position, the young Spaniard drove a faultless race, and was only headed for a few laps during the first pit stops. As for Jarno Trulli, he made an excellent start, and ran as high as fourth on the third lap after Rubens Barrichello made a mistake. Subsequently, suffering from a lack of grip, he lost positions, but nevertheless finished seventh, ahead of World Champion Michael Schumacher.

Fernando Alonso, winner:

"I have said it a lot this year, but this is the best day of my life. The car was perfect, the strategy too, and I managed to drive a consistent race. We had some problems on Friday, but the team worked hard to overcome them. Personally, I want to say a big thank you to the whole team, here at the track but also back at the factories in France and England. I am proud to be racing for Renault: winning this for them, and becoming the first driver from my country to win a Grand Prix, is fantastic."

Jarno Trulli, 7th position:

"First of all, it is a special day for the team, and I want to congratulate Fernando and all the team. My race began with an excellent start, and made the most of Rubens' mistake to overtake: we had a good fight. However, at the start of each stint, I lost grip almost immediately: the car was sliding all over the place. It is disappointing to lose a position compared to where I qualified, but I still managed to keep Michael behind during the final stint."

Flavio Briatore, Managing Director:

"A fantastic day for Renault, for the team and for Fernando. He drove a perfect race, and we made the right choices with the strategy. This win proves the work that our people in Viry-Châtillon and Enstone have accomplished. The champagne tastes good: we will now work even harder to make sure the next win isn't too long coming."

Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering:

"I think this finally confirms the improvement the team has made this year, and the promise we have shown all season. It is always good to win, but particularly so when it is done in such a dominant fashion, from pole. Before the race, I am sure many thought our strategy was too aggressive: I think we have vindicated our decision. We must not forget Jarno, who fought right through the race and did very well to hold off Michael in the latter stages. I want to congratulate the whole team and all those behind our victory today, including the excellent job done by our technical partners."

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