An F1 return for Romain?

Bruno Senna will drive for Renault in Friday morning's practice session to mark his first competitive outing for the team. With opportunities now limited for reserve drivers, Renault have followed Toro Rosso, Lotus and Force India by giving their third driver some much needed track time. Although Senna had tested the Renault R31 over the winter, it will be the first time he has driven the car at a race weekend.

With Nick Heidfeld's seat under review, Renault's decision to give Senna a go in the car on Friday will only heighten speculation. However, it is not the Brazilian who is Heidfeld's main threat. GP2 series leader and former Renault driver Romain Grosjean appears to be the front runner should the veteran be forced to step aside.

Now Grosjean is a driver I rate highly and, if my memory serves me correctly, was actually leading the GP2 series in 2009 before replacing Nelson Piquet Jr. at the European Grand Prix. Unused to the car, the Frenchman struggled hugely in his seven Grand Prix for the Enstone outfit and his best result was 13th at Interlagos.

However, the momentum behind the 25 year old is gradually growing. Renault Team Principal Eric Boullier told SpeedTV that as many as three teams are interested in Grosjean's services for 2012. Boullier is a big fan of Grosjean, a fellow countryman, and feels he has developed tremendously since 2009. If he were to replace Heidfeld, potentially as soon as the Italian Grand Prix in September, I fear he may replicate his form from 2009, such is his lack of track time in the R31.

However, much will depend on the health of Robert Kubica and with that in mind, Boullier may wish to draft Grosjean in this year to gauge his development. Vitaly Petrov, impressive thus far in 2011, should not be under threat so I am unclear as to where Grosjean would fit in should Kubica return successfully. The same goes for Senna, too, the current reserve driver.

Additionally, although no longer owning the team, Renault would relish a Frenchman representing them on the grid and Grosjean fits the bill. With their deep, historical background in F1 a grid without a Frenchman for the past two season is unprecedented, not to mention the fact they have not hosted a Grand Prix since 2008. Putting Grosjean into their driver line up would be a step in the right direction for French Motorsport, while for Grosjean he must utilise his second chance.

Josh.