Alonso pledges to make it a Grand day for Renault at Magny-Cours

Merci mes amis: Fernando Alonso with his French-Spanish friendship "Dialogo" award

"It's not been a good year so far, worse than we expected. We have not been on
the podium, let alone won a race," remarked Alonso.

"We have a lot of work to do. I will take a decision on my future towards the
end of the year when we'll be able to see how far we have come."

Ahead of this weekend's French Grand Prix, Alonso has claimed just nine points this season, finishing in the top eight once - sixth in Barcelona - in the last five races.

On his last outing in Canada, the 26-year-old qualified a fine fourth, only to spin out after 44 laps, adding to his angst.

"It's clear we missed a great opportunity to score some big points in
Montreal, but we must  remain positive and keep moving forward," insisted
Alonso.

"Our level of performance there showed the progress the team has made and we must now continue our efforts because we can see the rewards.

"I know that everybody in the team is doing their best to improve our performance, and that will pay off in the end."

At least Alonso, along with team-mate Nelson Piquet who has yet to score a point in his rookie season, will receive strong support from fans cheering on Renault.

Back on track: Fernando Alonso

"There are always lots of people associated with the team watching the race and wearing the team's colours, which is a big source of motivation," added
Alonso.

"As it's the French Grand Prix and the team is French, I have enormous motivation to have a good weekend, and I will again give my maximum."

Piquet knows he has to start scoring otherwise he is likely to be replaced sooner rather than later, but feels he is under no extra pressure simply because
he is on home soil for his team.

"I always expect the most from myself at all the races and always push to the limit anyway," assessed Piquet.

"It's obviously an important race for the team and I would love to get my first points on Renault's home ground, so that has to be my target.

"I'm sure there will be a lot of support for the team and I will try to draw on that.

"I will need to qualify well as it's a difficult track to overtake on, and if
I can do that then I think we can have a strong race."