Q & A with Franck Montagny

Conducted and provided by Renault's press office.

Q. What does your new role with Renault signify?

Franck Montagny:

I am third driver.That means that if one of the race drivers cannot compete in a Grand Prix, it will be down to me to defend the team's colours. This responsibility also includes an intensive test programme: there won't be any opportunities to get bored in 2004! For a French driver, it is a privilege to be in this position with the Renault F1 Team. I have worked very hard since the beginning of my career to get into F1 one day.

Q. Are you now completely comfortable at the wheel of an F1 car?

FM:

I am feeling better and better, not only in the car but also outside it. F1 is a world where everything has to be perfect, and the tiniest details count in every single area. I have got to know the team, and completed thousands of kilometres this winter. Every lap in an F1 car teaches you something new.

Q. How was the welcome from Jarno and Fernando?

FM:

They have both been fantastic. At Renault, there are no oversized egos. Jarno, Fernando and I all share the same values.We all put the interests of Renault ahead of our own.The finer details of set-up are more important to us than paddock rumours.

Q. What do you expect from 2004?

FM:

Above all, I want to learn as much as possible, in every area.The main thing will be to get completely used to how the team works, so that we can react quickly to unexpected situations.The team has placed a lot of trust in me, and my work will be particularly important, be it testing tyres or new parts. I am determined to meet the challenge, not to disappoint... and one day, I want to start my first Grand Prix!