Mission Accomplished for Renault in 2002

The Renault team were happy after achieving the goal they had set for themselves before the start of the 2002 season, finishing in fourth place in the Constructors' Championship.

"It was a good way to conclude this season," said Renault boss Flavio Briatore. "We are satisfied because we have fulfilled our objective for this year by securing fourth place in the Constructors' Championship.

"However, we are still too far behind the top teams and we have to work very hard over the winter to try and close the gap."

Briton Jenson Button, in his final race for the French squad before moving to British American Racing, scored a point thanks to a sixth place finish in Japan today, the Briton benefitting from the retirement of teammate Jarno Trulli. Button was happy to with the result.

"It's great to get a point for the team and myself," said Button. "It has been an up and down season, but has been good for my experience. It has been fun working with the team and I wish them all the best for next year."

It was the third time in a row that Renault finished in the points following Trulli's fourth place at Monza and fifth place at Indianapolis.