Irish F2 Driver Alex Dunne Drives McLaren F1 Practice Monza

Irish driver Alex Dunne will participate in his second Formula 1 Free Practice 1 session for McLaren at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, driving the championship-leading MCL39. The 19-year-old, part of McLaren's driver development program and currently fifth in the Formula 2 standings, impressed in his F1 debut at the Austrian Grand Prix by setting the fourth-fastest time in the session. This opportunity comes under the 2025 F1 regulations requiring teams to field young drivers in free practice twice per season, allowing Dunne to gain valuable experience alongside McLaren's title contenders Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Dunne has won two feature races in F2 and is aiming to build on his strong performance in Austria to support his teammates in the upcoming race weekend. His participation highlights his rapid progression as he balances commitments between F1 practice sessions and the Formula 2 championship. Dunne expressed excitement about driving at the historic Monza circuit again and hopes to help McLaren maintain their competitive edge.