05/09/2009
NEWS STORY
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The ING Renault F1 Team and Fernando Alonso completed a successful Roadshow in Oviedo today as Fernando drove his Formula One car on the streets of his hometown in front of 170,000 spectators.
The venue for the event was the Plaza de America in central Oviedo where a special 1.8km track was created on the city's streets. Fernando drove his go-kart, several Renault road cars, including a Megane Sport RS and Megane Trophy before finally burning rubber in last year's Renault F1 Car, the R28.
Although Renault has previously held Roadshows in Seville and Madrid, this was the first such event in Oviedo. As the hometown of Fernando Alonso, the occasion held particular sentiment for the Spaniard and the thousands of fans who came to watch the show. Fernando put on a spectacular display which included donuts and burnouts much to the delight of the crowd.
There was also recognition for Fernando from the Mayor of Oviedo, Gabino De Lorenzo, as it was announced that a street in the city is to be named in honour of the double world champion.
At the end of the event, Fernando spoke of his emotions on this special day: "It has been a beautiful day and a dream come true for me. I have to say a big 'thank you' to the government of Oviedo and also to Renault for allowing me to have a Roadshow in my home city. Oviedo should be very proud of this event because less than twenty cities have had the opportunity to see a Formula One car on their streets.
"I was pleased to see so many fans come along and watch the show and I hope that everybody enjoyed the event. I think this was the perfect way to reward my supporters and to show the people of Oviedo the excitement of Formula One."