Current Formula 2 championship leader Alex Dunne will take the place of McLaren and Formula 1 title contender Lando Norris for the first practice session of the Austrian Grand Prix on Friday, Afrosport reports.
The 19-year-old Irish driver has been part of McLaren’s Driver Development Programme since last year and will have the chance to get some mileage in F1 machinery for the first time at the Red Bull Ring.
According to the regulations, all F1 teams must run rookies over four race weekends this year across their two cars, which is two times the number of previous years. With the Austrian Grand Prix not being a sprint weekend, more teams are expected to give opportunities to more young drivers on Friday.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to be able to drive during FP1 in Austria,” Dunne said.
“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.”
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said: “It’s great to be able to give Alex the opportunity to run in Free Practice 1 and for him to get valuable time behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car as part of his development.
“The team are pleased to be working with him more closely and for his support across the weekend, where he will be providing useful feedback to help with the car’s set-up.
“The rookie sessions are fantastic for seeing the talent of tomorrow and enabling that rare chance to get time in a current car, so we look forward to seeing him on track.”
Alex Dunne to take part in FP1 in Austria! 🇦🇹
We can’t wait to see you get behind the wheel of the MCL39 🤩🙌#McLaren
— McLaren (@McLarenF1) June 23, 2025
McLaren go to Austria 175 points clear of Mercedes in the constructors standings, while Oscar Piastri leads the drivers standings, 22 points clear of his teammate Norris.
