New ultra-light seat belts for Renault

The Renault team will be making use of a highly-developed, super-light seatbelt this season after confirming a 3-year partnership with OMP Racing. The Genoa-based firm is also developing other technical equipment for the Enstone team, including driver and mechanic clothing such as race suits, boots, gloves and underwear.

With the pact between the two parties announced on Wednesday morning, OMP signs its latest contract with 35 years of experience already amassed in motorsport. The seatbelts to be used by Robert Kubica and his yet-to-be-named team-mate have undergone no less than two years of research.
The belts are made by incorporating materials such as titanium allow, aluminum and vanadium plus a mix of steel, magnesium and ergal, with the component's light weight resulting in greater performance as well as improving safety.

'Indeed, OMP suits were chosen and worn for years by seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher and have also been used by Rubens Barrichello, Eddie Irvine, Mika Häkkinen, Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna, Tommi Mäkinen, Carlos Sainz and Petter Solberg,' the statement reads of the Italian company's products.

"We are delighted to join forces with OMP Racing as a technical partner of the team," commented Renault Team Principal Eric Boullier. "Their expertise in providing high-end technical equipment is well-suited to our requirements and the demands of Formula 1. I'm confident that we will enjoy a productive and successful working relationship together in the years ahead."