Flavio Briatore has told Renault’s current driver lineup that they will have to wait a few more weeks to discover if they are a part of the team’s plans for 2008.
The Italian team principal originally promised Giancarlo Fisichella, Heikki Kovalainen and test driver Nelson Piquet Jr that they can expect clarity at the end of July.
But Briatore is now quoted as saying by Auto Motor und Sport: “I am giving myself a few more weeks (to decide).
“I want to give my drivers a better car so that I can judge their achievements better.”
It is rumoured, however, that the real reason for the delay is that Briatore senses an opportunity to rehire his former charge Fernando Alonso, who is reportedly unhappy at McLaren.
Moreover, it is believed that the Spanish double world champion’s multiple year McLaren contract might actually be voided if Ron Dennis’ team is punished at Thursday’s World Council hearing.
Alonso aside, Piquet Jr looks a favourite to step up to a racing seat with the French team. He is scheduled to drive for two of the three days at Jerez this week, while Fisichella has been used at tests on just three occasions this season.
Auto Motor und Sport claims that veteran Fisichella’s manager Enrico Zanarini has taken up negotiations with Sir Frank Williams about 2008.
