McLaren has handed rising star Alex Dunne a surprise outing in first practice at the Belgian Grand Prix, giving the Irish youngster his second taste of Formula 1 machinery this season.
The 19-year-old, currently leading the Formula 2 championship with Rodin Motorsport, stepped in for Lando Norris during Friday’s opening session at Spa-Francorchamps. It’s part of McLaren’s push to develop talent from their driver programme, where Dunne has been embedded since 2024.
Dunne, who impressed in a similar FP1 run at the Austrian Grand Prix last month, clocked competitive laps despite tricky wet conditions that delayed the start. He ended the session 12th fastest, just half a second off the pace set by teammate Oscar Piastri, who topped the times.
Team principal Andrea Stella praised Dunne’s composure, noting how the session data will feed into setup tweaks for the weekend. “Alex brings fresh energy and sharp feedback,” Stella said. “He’s proving why he’s a key part of our future plans.”
This move comes amid McLaren’s dominant 2025 campaign, with Piastri and Norris locked in a tight battle for the drivers’ title. Dunne’s involvement underscores the team’s depth, especially as he balances F2 duties and reserve roles in Formula E.
FIA regulations require teams to field young drivers in at least two FP1 sessions per season, and McLaren is ticking that box while scouting potential successors. Dunne’s performance could open doors for more opportunities if he maintains his F2 form.
For now, the focus shifts back to the main duo, with qualifying set to decide the grid in what promises to be a rain-hit weekend.
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