It has been announced that Thierry Koskas will become Renault Sport Racing’s president, replacing Jerome Stoll in the process.
Stoll joined Renault in 1980 and become the racing arm’s head in 2016 when the French manufacturer made its return to F1 – not only as an engine supplier but as an active team after leaving the sport at the end of the 2010 season.
It hasn’t been the smoothest journey upon its return but it has made steady progress from ninth to sixth to fourth this year – which it is set to finish with one race to go in the 2018 season. The team hasn’t had a podium finish in the three years though.
Not so much for the F1 team but it has faced severe flak for its power unit development as it has failed to catch up with the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari, while, at the same time Honda is looking to get on par with the French manufacturer already.
The first change comes with Stoll moving out – at the age of 65-years – with Koskas replacing him, taking office from January 1, 2019. Koskas has been working with Renault since 1997 and became the executive vice-president of sales and marketing in 2016.
He thereby became a member of the manufacturer’s executive committee as well. Koskas will directly report to Groupe Renault’s Chairman and CEO, Carlos Ghosn, while working alongside Renault Sport Racing’s MD, Cyril Abiteboul.
“After a season marked by the progress of the Renault Sport Formula One Team, Thierry Koskas will aim to continue with Cyril Abiteboul, Managing Director of Renault Sport Racing, the work started by Jerome Stoll and bring the team to the highest level of the discipline.
“He will also ensure that Formula 1’s contribution to Renault’s brand awareness worldwide is strengthened,” said a statement from Groupe Renault. It remains to be seen if Stoll is moved to another position or retires from the company.