P1racenews AI automatic summary:
What could have been: When Villeneuve’s shock return thwarted an F1 rookie
Jacques Villeneuve’s return to Formula 1 at Renault for the 2004 Chinese Grand Prix was a crucial moment in Franck Montagny’s career. Despite being the logical choice, Montagny was passed over for the seat that Villeneuve ultimately took alongside Fernando Alonso. Montagny’s contract stipulated that he would step in if a regular driver needed replacing, yet he was overlooked for the opportunity. Eventually, Montagny made his F1 debut in 2006 for Super Aguri after missing out on drives at Renault and Sauber, taken by Villeneuve. The events leading to Villeneuve’s return were initiated by Jarno Trulli’s early departure from Renault to join Toyota. Montagny, having extensive testing experience with Renault, seemed like the practical choice to replace Trulli. However, the decision to bring back Villeneuve complicated matters for Montagny, who was left on the sidelines.
