Renault have shot down a rumour that they might be considering a livery change for the start of the season in Melbourne.

A year ago, as the French carmaker returned to the sport as a full constructor, they launched a black test car only for them to switch to all-yellow for the actual world championship.

Now, the colour black has returned prominently to the newly-launched 2017, triggering rumours Renault could revert to all-yellow or even a striking yellow and blue colour scheme for Melbourne.

However, a team spokesman told Auto Bild: "Those rumours have no substance."

Renault finished ninth in the 2016 constructors' championship.