Alonso set to announce Renault future

The Spaniard has been considering his options for next year following a challenging season on a return to the French car manufacturer that helped him to world titles in 2005 and 2006.

But despite overtures from Honda Racing and BMW Sauber, Alonso has decided to remain at Renault for another season.

Renault team boss Flavio Briatore told autosport.com on Sunday night in Brazil that the team were planning to reveal their driver line-up for next year this week.

"I will confirm my drivers on Wednesday," he said. "That will be the announcement but I cannot say who the drivers will be."

Sources suggest that Brazilian Nelson Piquet is now favourite to keep the second seat - having been handed a stay of execution following a step forward in performance in recent races.

Renault test drivers Lucas di Grassi and Romain Grosjean had been linked to the second seat this season.

Briatore would not confirm speculation about Piquet when asked if the Brazilian would indeed be staying on board.

"We will see," he said. "You know, it is not a surprise anymore."