What Is 2009 World Series by Renault

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2009 World Series by Renault was a multi-event motorsport series that included Formula Renault 3.5 and Formula Renault 2.0 championships, running from April to October 2009 across Europe. It featured drivers like Bertrand Baguette and Mikhail Aleshin, with races held at circuits such as Silverstone and Monza.

Key Facts

The 2009 World Series by Renault ran from April to October 2009
It featured two main categories: Formula Renault 3.5 and Formula Renault 2.0
Seven race weekends were held, primarily in European countries
Bertrand Baguette won the Formula Renault 3.5 title in 2009
Races supported events like the 24 Hours of Spa and Formula 1 Grand Prix

Overview

The 2009 World Series by Renault was a single-seater motorsport championship organized by Renault Sport. It served as a crucial development platform for young drivers aspiring to reach Formula 1 and other top-tier series. The season spanned from April to October, featuring a dual-format structure with two primary categories.

The series combined high-speed racing with technical innovation, promoting emerging talent across Europe. It was known for its cost-effective approach compared to other junior formulas, helping drivers gain experience on F1-supporting weekends. Events were held at renowned circuits, offering visibility and competitive exposure.

Seven race weekends: The 2009 season included seven double-header rounds, totaling 14 races across Europe, with events in France, Belgium, Italy, and Portugal.
Formula Renault 3.5: This category featured 3.5-liter V6 engines producing around 520 horsepower, used by future F1 drivers like Charles Pic and Davide Valsecchi.
Formula Renault 2.0: A feeder series for younger drivers, using 2.0-liter engines and serving as a stepping stone to higher formulas.
Champion:Bertrand Baguette won the Formula Renault 3.5 title with five victories, driving for International Draco Racing.
Support races: Events were often held alongside Formula 1 Grands Prix and the 24 Hours of Spa, increasing audience reach and media coverage.

How It Works

The World Series by Renault operated as a unified brand for Renault’s junior racing programs, combining engineering support, standardized regulations, and media promotion. It aimed to streamline driver progression through professional motorsport tiers using cost-controlled platforms.

Championship Format: Each weekend featured two races per category, with qualifying sessions determining grid positions based on combined practice times.
Scoring System: Points were awarded to the top 10 finishers in each race, with 30 for first, 24 for second, down to 1 for tenth, encouraging consistent performance.
Car Specifications: The Formula Renault 3.5 used Dallara chassis and Zytek engines, capable of reaching speeds over 300 km/h on straights.
Driver Eligibility: Competitors had to hold an FIA Super License or national racing license, with age limits typically between 16 and 25.
Team Structure: Teams operated under Renault’s technical oversight, using sealed engines and standardized electronics to control costs.
Event Integration: Races were scheduled as support events for Formula 1 and endurance races, enhancing exposure and logistical synergy.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the two primary categories in the 2009 World Series by Renault:

Feature	Formula Renault 3.5	Formula Renault 2.0
Engine	3.5L V6 (Zytek), ~520 hp	2.0L inline-4, ~210 hp
Chassis	Dallara T08	Tatuus FR2.0
Top Speed	Over 300 km/h (186 mph)	Around 240 km/h (149 mph)
Weight	585 kg (including driver)	505 kg (including driver)
2009 Champion	Bertrand Baguette	Alberto Valerio

The dual-tier structure allowed drivers to progress from Formula Renault 2.0 to the 3.5 series, creating a clear pathway. Both categories emphasized driver skill over technological advantage, using standardized components to ensure close competition. This format helped teams manage budgets while maintaining high racing quality.

Why It Matters

The 2009 World Series by Renault played a significant role in shaping future motorsport careers and advancing Renault’s racing legacy. It bridged the gap between karting and elite single-seater racing, offering a structured, visible platform for talent.

Driver Development: The series helped launch the careers of Charles Pic and Kevin Korjus, who later competed in Formula 1 and GP2.
Technical Innovation: Renault used the series to test aerodynamic packages and engine reliability under race conditions.
Cost Efficiency: With season budgets around €500,000 for FR3.5, it was more affordable than GP2 or F3, attracting privateers.
Global Exposure: Races aired on Eurosport and national broadcasters, increasing visibility for sponsors and drivers.
Regulatory Model: The series influenced future FIA standards for junior formula cost caps and technical parity.
Legacy: After 2013, the series evolved into the Formula Renault 3.5 Series, maintaining its developmental role.

By integrating tightly with major motorsport events and focusing on driver progression, the 2009 World Series by Renault reinforced its status as a vital link in the racing ecosystem. Its influence continues in modern junior formula design and talent pipelines.