Palmer to depart from Renault after Japanese GP

Jolyon Palmer has announced that he will be departing the Renault Formula 1 team after the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend. The Briton recently found out that he would be replaced at the team for next season by Carlos Sainz after racing for two years with the French manufacturer.

The Briton made his debut last season, partnering Kevin Magnussen. A difficult season followed with only one finish inside the top ten, coming at the Malaysian Grand Prix. This season, Palmer has been dominated by Nico Hulkenberg and has decided to call time on his Renault career.

"Tomorrow's Japanese GP will be my last race for Renault," he announced on Instagram. "With my grid penalty I'll be starting near the back but I will be giving it my all as always. Thanks everyone for the support during the last 2 years, it means a lot!"

Palmer recently spoke about his future, saying that he isn't quite sure what he will be doing in 2018, but hopes that it is on a long-term deal. Early suggestions are that the 2014 GP2 champion could be off to IndyCar to compete in the American series.

"Formula 1 is an excellent series and I would like to stay," he said, "but if you do not have financial guarantees or you're not one of the top drivers, then every year you feel the pressure. I want to be in a series where I have a long-term contract and can enjoy the racing. Let's see what happens. At the moment I don't have a plan, only different options that need to be considered."

Fergal Walsh