LONDON (AP) _ Renault is set to appoint Bernard Rey as president of its Formula One team following the departure of Alain Dassas.

Rey, a senior vice-president with Renault's chief executive office, has been nominated to the role with the world champion team because Dassas has been appointed chief financial officer of Nissan.

Rey, who was previously responsible for Nissan's motor sport teams, will take charge Sept. 17, near the end of the current world championship.

Renault said Tuesday that the changeover will occur with three races remaining ``to ensure a smooth, stable transition as the team prepares for 2008.''

Dassas took charge in April 2006 and presided over a second straight double of drivers' and manufacturers' titles. But star driver Fernando Alonso left for McLaren after his second championship title and Renault has slipped from contention this year.

Renault is without a win after 12 of 17 races and is in fourth place in the constructors' championship with 36 points, 112 fewer than leader McLaren.

``The team is preparing to return to the highest level next season and is well-placed to do so in terms of personnel and resources,'' Rey said.