(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Alex Dunne Eyes F1 Breakthrough After Impressive F2 Season
Alex Dunne, the 19-year-old McLaren junior and Formula 2 star from County Offaly, is on a mission to become the next Irish driver in Formula 1 — a feat last achieved by Ralph Firman in 2003.
Rising Star in F2
Dunne has made a strong mark in the 2025 Formula 2 season, securing two wins in Bahrain and Imola. Speaking about his rookie season, he said:
“Jumping into F2 as a rookie, I know that if I go really well this year, there’s a high chance of moving into F1. But I try not to put too much pressure on it. Every weekend is different, and setbacks can happen, but I believe we can still have a great season.”
Despite leading the championship mid-season, Dunne now sits fifth, 50 points behind leader Leonardo Fornaroli ahead of Baku. Challenges including a disqualification, penalties, and collisions have tested his resilience, yet the young driver remains focused on the bigger picture.
F1 Test Highlights
Dunne made headlines with his Formula 1 practice debut in Austria in June, becoming the first Irish driver to participate in an F1 session since Firman. He impressed, finishing fourth-fastest, just 0.069 seconds off McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri.
“It was a smooth session, mainly focused on data, but I felt very comfortable from the start. Competing against the best in the world was challenging, but those last laps were where I found my feet,” Dunne recalled.
Motorsport Roots
Alex Dunne’s passion for racing runs in the family. His father, Noel Dunne, was a two-time Irish Formula Ford FG1600 champion. Alex started karting at age nine and quickly progressed through the ranks in the UK, despite initial struggles and funding challenges.
F2 Focus Before F1
While F1 is the ultimate goal, Dunne emphasizes staying focused on Formula 2:
“I want to be an F1 driver, but right now the focus is on F2. Winning the championship is the best way to give myself the opportunity for an F1 seat in the future.”
Dunne’s journey highlights the combination of talent, patience, and strategy required to make the leap from junior categories to the pinnacle of motorsport. With the F2 season heading into its final rounds, all eyes are on the Irish prodigy as he continues his bid to reach Formula 1.
