McLaren and Alex Dunne part ways with immediate effect
2nd October 2025McLaren has announced they are to part ways with Alex Dunne with immediate effect, ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix.
Feature image credit: McLaren Racing
The Irish driver, Dunne, has been confirmed to part ways with the defending constructors champions, McLaren, ahead of this weekends Singapore Grand Prix.
The 19 year old has been part of the McLaren team since 2024, as part of their driver development programme, and has enjoyed two separate outings with the team this year, with future outings in the works.
In their announcement, McLaren said:
“McLaren Racing has ended its contract with McLaren Driver Development Programme member Alex Dunne.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Alex over the last year and to have been able to contribute to his success and growth as a driver through the McLaren Driver Development programme.
“Alex will be released with immediate effect.
“We wish Alex all the best for his career going forward.”
However, there is speculation that the Irishman will be heading elsewhere as the two seats at McLaren look locked down for the foreseeable future with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri heading the teams title charge.
The likely destination is been rumoured to be Red Bull, who have reportedly interested in signing him into their driver programme.
Currently, as it stands, no one is locked down with the Red Bull sister team next year, with Liam Lawson, Isack Hadjar (with rumours of a Red Bull switch) and Yuki Tsunoda vying for their Formula 1 futures.
On social media, Dunne said:
“From today I’ve mutually decided to part ways with the McLaren Driver Development programme.
“I’d like to thank every individual at McLaren that has helped me develop and improve as a driver, To have my first opportunity to drive an F1 car followed by two FP1 sessions is something I’ll always hold very close to my heart, I wish them all the best for the future. Thank you Papaya family.
“Still two important rounds left to focus on this year, very excited for what’s to come”
Despite questions around Dunne’s future, the Irish teenager still has two Formula 2 rounds left to compete with Qatar and Abu Dhabi left on the calendar.
He currently occupies fifth in the standings, 58 points off away from the championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli.
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- Why Oscar Piastri will not take Singapore Grand Prix grid penalty
- Singapore GP Preview: Max Verstappen’s resurgence and McLaren’s title hopes
- Lewis Hamilton confirms passing of Roscoe
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