Renault roadshow for Lyon

Place Bellecour will be the site of the Renault F1 paddock, and the square will also feature displays of the five Renault-powered world championship-winning F1 cars from 1992-'93 and '95-'97. In the afternoon, all eyes will turn to the unique spectacle of an F1 car running through the city streets.

"We are delighted to be able to put on this show for the public," said Renault F1 president Patrick Faure. "Lyon is an important city for Renault, and this is also a precursor of things to come. The enthusiastic response from previous street events has shown us that Formula 1 needs to get closer to its public, a sentiment that is perfectly in line with Renault's values.

"The Renault Roadshow demonstration in Lyon will be followed by more events around the world in 2005, both at racetracks and on city streets. We are committed to getting people as close as possible to our exciting sport."

Nine of Renault's most prestigious historic racers will be on hand, including the 1978 Le Mans winning Alpine Renault in the hands of its original driver Jean-Pierre Jaussaud, and the original Renault F1 car, the 1977 RS01, which will be handled by former F1 star René Arnoux. Renault stalwarts Alain Serpaggi and Jean Ragnotti will also demonstrate rally cars from the last 20 years.

The climax of the event will come with the high-speed demonstration of the new for GP2 Series racer, to be followed by the Renault F1 R24. Drivers Fernando Alonso and Franck Montagny will take turns at the wheel of the F1 car to wow the crowds along the route.

"We are all looking forward to putting on a special show in Lyon," said Fernando Alonso. "I love the roadshow events we have done with the team over the past two years, and I think it is a great idea: it is exciting for the drivers as well to be running on the streets, with people so close around.

"We are far away from our fans at the races, so this is a great opportunity for the public to experience the true sensations of an F1 car up close. I hope we can give them something to remember!"

Admission for the general public to the entire event will be free of charge.