Renault Drop McNish for Montagny

Frenchman Franck Montagny will become the Renault team's third driver in the 2004 season, the French squad announced today.

25-year old Montagny, the current leader of the 'World Series by Nissan' championship, has been promoted to the role after testing for Renault in 2003 alongside Scot Allan McNish, who will leave the team at the end of the season.

Renault said Montagny will see his testing duties extended in 2004, working alongside race drivers Jarno Trulli and Fernando Alonso.

"I am happy to welcome Franck as our third driver," said Renault's Managing Director Flavio Briatore. "In recent years, the third driver has become increasingly important to a team's success, and our decision to promote Franck to this key role is a direct reflection of the work he has accomplished for us this year.

"He has worked hard behind the scenes testing for the F1 team, and he has put in accomplished race performances in the Nissan series. He has a bright future ahead of him. We also want to thank Allan McNish, who has done an outstanding job for us this year, and made a key contribution to our success.

"His work in the 'Heathrow' test sessions has been invaluable, and we hope that his achievements this year will propel him to greater things."