Renault: Why can’t we have two lead drivers?

After confirming the acquisition of Nico Hulkenberg for next year, Renault boss Frederic Vasseur hinted that they could add another lead driver to their roster.

The French Manufacturers' are hoping that the German speedster could lead their resurgence in the sport as they target podium finishes within the 2017 season.

With several drivers linked with the Enstone-based outfit to race alongside Hulkenberg, Vasseur used Mercedes as an example, saying that there is no reason why they can’t have two equally as good drivers occupying their race seats

"Why wouldn't we have two team leaders?" the Frenchman told L’Equipe.

"At Mercedes, it works perfectly.

"I don't like the idea of having a top driver and another one left in the shadow. Performance comes emulation.

"Just look at Mercedes: the duel [between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg] has pushed the team forward. The idea would be to have two equally talented drivers."

One of the names linked with the Renault seat is up and coming French driver Esteaban Ocon, which Vasseur revealed to be interested in.

"He is on our short-list," he said. "It's not a secret. We give ourselves a few races to monitor every candidate for our second seat before making the decision.

"Each race brings more valuable information. Ocon's performance in Suzuka last weekend was very rewarding for him compared to his team-mate. He had an excellent Japanese Grand Prix."