Fernando Alonso is in the house! This week his tour of the Renault F1 factory in France had social media in a frenzy, but Daniel Ricciardo – whose departure made way for the double F1 world champion’s return – is not fazed by the diverted attention.

The Australian told Racer that he relishing the prospect of the double F1 World Champion’s return to the top flight next year, “Fernando coming in and going on the simulator the last few days, that is exciting for the team. I certainly do not feel like I am in any way shape or form left on the side.

Dan will move to Mercedes-powered McLaren next year but intends giving it hi best shot until the very end with Renault, “I’m still working a lot with the team to develop the car for this year, and obviously Fernando’s return is exciting for not only Renault but F1.

For a change, Alonso may have struck it lucky with the timing of his return as Renault have found some extra grunt that has them better than Honda and Ferrari at this stage of the PU pecking order.