Reigning Formula Renault 3.5 Series champion, Kevin Magnussen made his debut in the sport’s elite championship. On a circuit he had never competed on previously, the Dane demonstrated that a successful driver in the World Series by Renault never wins by chance ! Fourth in qualifying, Magnussen drove a solid race to finish in the top three in his maiden Formula 1 race, finishing ahead of team mate, Jenson Button ; the 2009 F1 World Champion and a veteran in motor racing’s pinnacle championship.

Runner-up in the Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 then second in the 2010 Formula Renault 3.5 Series in 2010, Daniel Ricciardo, made his debut with Infiniti Red Bull Racing Renault. In his first race with the four-time World Constructor Championship winning team, Ricciardo took his first podium result, the first for an Australian in his national round since 1983 ! He was disqualified after his fuel flow exceeded the newly mandated limits ; the team has stated its intent to appeal the decision.

The actions implemented by Renault Sport Technologies, allowing drivers to understand the demands of Formula 1 continue to bear fruit with three other drivers finish in the points : Valtteri Bottas, Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniil Kvyat. The Russian, runner-up in the 2012 Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 became the youngest driver ever to score a point, breaking Sebastien Vettel’s record, who also took part in the Formula Renault 3.5 Series championship.

Renault Sport Technologies congratulates its former drivers and wish that they continue the 2014 season on such a pace !