Zoom A dual programme for Grosjean in 2009

Speaking at the launch of the new Renault R29, Romain Grosjean talks of his new role with the team, the testing restrictions and his GP2 campaign.

Romain, you’re the ING Renault F1 Team’s third driver for 2009. What does that mean to you?
"It’s a real honour to be part of the team and to be involved in Formula One. Having been a test driver for Renault, becoming the third driver is another step forward in my career as I will be attending all the Grands Prix. The year ahead therefore promises to be an amazing learning experience and I intend to make the most of the opportunity to be part of a world championship winning team."

You will have to be like a sponge, ready to absorb everything that you can…
"Exactly! Taking part in race debriefs with Fernando and Nelson will be very valuable, as will understanding how the team works. I shall learn all that I can and, if I become a race driver one day, I will have this valuable experience to draw upon."

Do you consider this promotion as a reward or do you now feel there will be added pressure?
"It’s not really a case of it being a reward or added pressure. It’s the logical result of what I have achieved with Renault since I joined the RDD in 2006. This opportunity gives me a year to learn about the team, to try and win the GP2 championship where I will also be racing, and to become even stronger for 2010. "

How is your relationship with the team?
"I’ve already worked with the team and I know a lot of the people as I go to the factories in Enstone and Viry quite regularly. In 2008 I had my first test with the team and so I’ve been able to build a relationship with the test team, which has been a really valuable experience. Now, I’ll be able to strengthen my relationship with the engineers and learn more about how the team operates, which is really exciting."

In-season testing is now banned. Is that a big disadvantage for you?
"Yes, it’s not good news for young drivers. Now, we have to wait and see if the FIA plans to introduce some measures to allow the third drivers to drive and gain experience. Sebastian Vettel and Robert Kubica did this when they were third drivers and it helped them a lot."

You will also line up in the GP2 Series this year – so you can expect a busy schedule over race weekends...
"I’m not too worried about that. On European race weekends, when I will have to complete both roles, the priority will be to win in GP2 and I will be taking that very seriously. But I think that with a bit of organisation, I should be able to combine both roles without too much trouble."