Renault agrees partnership with OMP Racing

The agreement will see OMP Racing supply the team with safety equipment for the cars, including the introduction of new ultra-light seatbelts. Technical equipment and clothing for the drivers and mechanics will also be supplied, including fire-proof race suits, boots, gloves and underwear.

With over 35 years experience in racing, OMP has firmly established its position as a major player in the world of specialist motorsport equipment. The innovative seatbelts that will be used by the Renault F1 Team have undergone two years of research and development by the Genoa-based company. By using specialist materials, such as titanium alloy, aluminium and vanadium, along with a mix of steel, magnesium and ergal, the OMP seatbelt is extremely lightweight, thus providing both safety and performance through reduced weight.

The OMP fireproof suits that will be used by the drivers and mechanics are well known for their quality. Manufactured in OMP’s Genoa factory in Ronco Scrivia, the suits are made using a combination of traditional craftsmanship and state-of-the-art machinery to provide comfort and safety. Indeed, OMP suits were chosen and worn for years by seven-time Formula One World Champion, Michael Schumacher, and have also been used by Rubens Barrichello, Eddie Irvine, Mika Hakkinen, Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna, Tommi Makinen, Carlos Sainz and Petter Solberg.

Speaking at the announcement, Eric Boullier, Renault F1 Team Principal, said: "We are delighted to join forces with OMP Racing as a technical partner of the team. Their expertise in providing high-end technical equipment is well suited to our requirements and the demands of Formula One. I’m confident that we will enjoy a productive and successful working relationship together in the years ahead."

Paolo Delprato, vice president of OMP, added: "This agreement with the Renault F1 Team represents more than just a simple return to the Formula One scene for OMP. It’s also an important milestone because, for the first time in its long history, the company has become a supplier not only of technical clothing, but also of a safety product that has been developed and created specifically for Formula One. This is a great achievement made possible by the excellent collaboration established with the Renault F1 Team and the skills of our employees and technicians. We are proud that the partnership will allow our products to be used once again at the pinnacle of motorsport and will contribute to the success of one of the leading names in motor racing."