FERNANDO Alonso is targeting podiums after his return to the Enstone-based Renault Formula 1 team for next season was confirmed.

The Spaniard won his two world championship titles, in 2005 and 2006, with the team.

He will partner Esteban Ocon in 2021, following Daniel Ricciardo's decision to move to McLaren.

Alonso, 38, said: “Renault is my family, my fondest memories in Formula One with my two World Championship titles, but I’m now looking ahead.

"It’s a great source of pride and with an immense emotion I’m returning to the team that gave me my chance at the start of my career and which now gives me the opportunity to return to the highest level.

"I have principles and ambitions in line with the team’s project.

"Their progress this winter gives credibility to the objectives and I will share all my racing experience with everyone from the engineers to the mechanics and my team-mates.

"The team wants and has the means to get back on the podium, as do I.”

Alonso spent seven years with Renault across two stints, before going on to race for Ferrari and McLaren.

He left in 2018 to pursue other ambitions, going on to win twice at the Le Mans 24 hour race and competing at the Indy 500 and Dakar Rally.

Renault, who are preparing for the second round of the delayed 2020 season in Austria this weekend, said they plan to build the team around "two complementary drivers, combining experience and youth, and pooling their values and talent in the service of the project".

Cyril Abiteboul, managing director at Renault Sport Racing, said: "The signing of Fernando Alonso is part of Groupe Renault’s plan to continue its commitment to F1 and to return to the top of the field.

"His presence in our team is a formidable asset on the sporting level but also for the brand to which he is very attached.

"The strength of the bond between him, the team and the fans make him a natural choice.

"In addition to past successes, it is a bold mutual choice as well as a project for the future.

"His experience and determination will enable us to get the best out of each other to take the team towards the excellence that modern Formula 1 demands."