Who is Alex Dunne?Irish racing star set to take over F1
For the first time in over twenty years, an Irish driver is set to take part in a major Formula 1 race weekend.
Alex Dunne is a 19-year-old from Offaly and has been lauded as one of the sport's brightest up and coming stars, with many comparing him to Ralph Firman, who last raced in 2003. The Irish are well and truly taking over every discipline in the world and we are here for it! Pic: Alastair Staley/LAT Images via Getty Images
On Monday, McLaren announced that Lando Norris will be replaced by Irish driver Alex for first practice at the Austrian Grand Prix this coming weekend, so here's a little bit of information on the powerhouse.
The Offaly native currently leads the Formula 2 championship in his rookie season, having been a part of McLaren's Driver Development Programme since 2024.
Speaking on the achievement, Alex said: 'It's an amazing opportunity to be able to drive during FP1 in Austria. For the first time in over twenty years, an Irish driver is set to take part in a major Formula 1 race weekend. Pic: Alastair Staley/LAT Images via Getty Images
'I'm really looking forward to getting laps in behind the wheel of the MCL39 and supporting the team with the set-up for the race weekend ahead.
'I've been preparing well for the sessions, taking part in Testing of Previous Cars tests in the MCL60 and spending time on the simulator, which has been a fantastic learning experience.'
Alex has come leaps and bounds since his karting days, having made a name for himself early on in the European circuit. Alex Dunne is a 19-year-old for Offaly and has been lauded as one of the sport's brightest up and coming stars, with many comparing him to Ralph Firman, who last raced in 2003. Pic: Malcolm Griffiths – Formula 1/Formula Motorsport Limited via Getty Images
The Irish star debuted in car racing in 2021, and by 2022, he had already won the British F4 Championship, dominating leader boards at every opportunity.
In 2022, Alex also competed in the Italian F4 Championship, finishing runner-up.
In 2025, he was announced as a Formula 2 driver, an unsurprising move for the rising star.
Could this be the start of a lengthy partnership with F1? We hope so! Good Luck Alex!
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