Alonso back at Renault

Motor racing ace Fernando Alonso has switched back to Renault after an emotionally fraught season with McLaren.

The 2005 and 2006 World Champion returns to the team that made him such a great success and with such stability now in place he must rate as a very solid bet to win the 2008 Drivers title.

The man from Cantabria was 2/1 to win this season´s title at the start of the year with Bodog.

Alonso´s transfer arrives after the FIA - Formula One´s world governing body ruled not to punish Renault over the controversial spy scandal.

In the recent FIA  investigation Renault were found guilty of fraudulent conduct.

Driving next to Alonso at Renault will be exciting rookie Nelson Piquet Jnr. Brazillian Piquet has been promoted from his role as test driver. Alonso´s return to Renault sees him again link up with mentor and team leader Flavio Briatore. Italian Briatore has despensed with the services of Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen.

"I am delighted to be returning to Renault. This is the team where I grew up as a driver in Formula One. Now it is time for us to begin a new chapter together," said Alonso.

"I am very excited about working with this great team once more, and confident that together we can move back to the front of the field.

"Renault had a difficult year in 2007, but I know that the team has real strength in depth.

"I am confident they can produce a fast and competitive car and be back at the top in 2008."