Renault have left the Grand Prix Manufacturers Association (GPMA), following the lead of Toyota who left last August.
A statement issued by Renault said: “Renault today informed the GPMA that it has left the organisation with immediate effect.”Renault believes that in order to achieve constructive dialogue with the FIA on the future direction of the sport, it is important to work in consultation with all manufacturers participating in Formula One, including Ferrari and Toyota.”
Renault’s move leaves just BMW, DaimlerChrysler and Honda as GPMA members.

Red Bull’s racing advisor Helmut Marko says that a deal with American driver Scott Speed will be agreed “within the next few days“. Speed was noticeable by his absence at the recent Toro Rosso launch.

Matt Halliday will replace Jonny Reid at Team New Zealand for the next A1GP round in Durban, South Africa.

Team boss Colin Giltrap said: “Matt drove in South Africa last season, scoring an impressive fourth place in the feature race, and he’s had more experience than Jonny of street circuit racing.

“Matt hasn’t been in the car since the last street race in Beijing back in round three, but he’s been superb in supporting Jonny and the team and deserves this opportunity.”

New Zealand are currently second in the championship.