Nov.16 (GMM) Franck Montagny insists he is still in the running to become Robert Kubica’s Renault teammate in 2010, with a decision due within the next couple of weeks.
The 31-year-old Frenchman, a former test driver who contested a handful of races with Super Aguri in 2006, recently confirmed he has been in contact with the Enstone based team.
Montagny told Radio Canada that discussions have been held on a number of occasions.
“The possibility is real, we have discussed it a lot of times,” he said. “We will see how it is going to end. It’s still a bit early.”
It is rumoured that Renault would like a French driver at Pole Kubica’s side in 2010, after the Swiss-born rookie Frenchman Romain Grosjean failed to impress in the second half of this season.
Montagny admits he was surprised to find himself in contention for the seat at Renault, whose carmaker parent is considering its future in F1.
“I did not particularly expect to be on that list, but surprises like that can happen,” said Montagny.
He also confirmed that the departure of Flavio Briatore as Renault team boss has helped his chances, as he did not get along with the flamboyant Italian.
