Motor Racing: Renault pursue Mansell

NIGEL MANSELL'S wish for a final fling in Formula One next year seems certain to be granted by Williams-Renault, writes Derick Allsop from Spa-Francorchamps. Patrick Faure, the head of Renault Sport, cut through the haze of conflicting speculation here yesterday to make clear his company's support for the return of the former world champion.

Faure, who recently signed a new three-year contract with Williams, is satisfied Mansell, at the age of 41, still has it in him to win the title. He was equally positive in his assertion that Damon Hill should keep his place in the team.

Mansell, who drove for Williams in last month's French Grand Prix and is booked for the last three races of this season, is ready to abandon IndyCars for a last chance in the world championship.

Faure said: 'Frank Williams has the final word on drivers, but I hope we can reach agreement with Mansell for next year. Coming back at Magny-Cours he had the second-best time, a tenth of a second behind Damon, and that proved he is still very good.'