Saulnier signs Pagenaud

Formula Renault Eurocup runner-up Simon Pagenaud will jump straight into the new World Series by Renault with Saulnier Racing

Matt Beer Feb 15, 2005, 1:26 PM

Pagenaud spent three seasons in Renault's two-litre junior category, the highlight being his battle with Scott Speed for last year's Eurocup title. The 20-year-old Frenchman will have his first run in the new Dallara-built Formula Renault 3.5 World Series car in the major test at Paul Ricard this weekend.

"This championship is going to be very tough but I'm currently preparing myself to face this challenge," said Pagenaud. "The test in Paul Ricard will allow me to see where I am and will let me familiarise with the car.

"New car and new championship - the counter is at zero. I feel more motivated than ever."

Saulnier Racing ran Tristan Gommendy and Sergio Hernandez in last year's Spanish-based World Series by Nissan, the forerunner to the new Renault championship.

"It looks essential to me to have a young driver in our 2005 team," said team boss Serge Saulnier. "Simon is very talented and although he is a young guy, he's very mature and professional."