Q & A with Flavio Briatore

Conducted and provided by Renault's press office.

Q. What feelings does the R24 inspire?

Flavio Briatore:

This new car shows clearly that Renault is a top team, not only through our results, but also in how we work. The design process, the production, the assembly and the first tests of the R24 have demonstrated our maturity. We are taking big steps forward, and hitting our targets. When I arrived at the team,my aim was to be able to compete for the title in 2005. We will be ready.

Q. You have an extremely competitive, unchanged driver line-up…

FB:

Certainly. Jarno had an exceptional end to the 2003 season, and he was always quick in qualifying. Furthermore, his way of working is now in line with that of a top team. For his part, Fernando has developed his talent: having said that, his apprenticeship is not yet complete. 2004 will be very important for them both. Furthermore, we welcome Franck Montagny as our third driver: his job will be very important this year. His technical sensitivity is excellent, as is his speed.This is a big opportunity for him.

Q. Your new engine was designed in record time.Will this be a problem?

FB:

The most important thing for us is to have fewer technical problems than in 2003. The basis of the RS24 is less risky, and the organisation at Viry is better. The first three races might be difficult in terms of performance, but from the second half of the championship onwards, the engine will be much more powerful.

Q. What is the commercial situation of the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team?

FB:

It reflects our results, which have been improving consistently. Renault has a young, dynamic, open image. In three years, we have gone from the back of the grid to the top step of the podium. This progress hasn't gone unnoticed by sponsors. Our budget this season is in line with our ambitions. Unlike other teams, though, this doesn't stop us pushing for cost reductions. F1 could offer a better show for 70% of the current budgets.

Q. What do you think you have brought to the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team in three years?

FB:

I think I have put in place a good organisation, the right people, and discipline. My role is to take care of the commercial and strategic sides, but especially to create an effective, untied group. I think we have managed it at Enstone. The appointment of Rob White as Technical Director at Viry-Chatillon should bring us the same efficiency there. The dialogue between our two factories will be even faster.

Q. Do you think you have changed since you started in F1?

FB:

My methods are still the same. I leave people to get on with their job and take decisions quickly, intuitively. Today, I also have more experience and I don't make certain mistakes. As for the rest… I'm still Flavio. That's to say, rarely satisfied!