McLaren have confirmed that Irish driver Alex Dunne will take part in Free Practice 1 at the Austrian Grand Prix.

Dunne, a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme since May 2024, will get behind the wheel of the MCL39 in the weekend’s opening session in place of Lando Norris  to become the first Irish driver to take part in an F1 weekend for 22 years.

The 19-year-old from Offaly currently races for Rodin Motorsport in F2, as he sits three points ahead in the standings after wins in Bahrain and Imola also serves as Reserve and Development Driver for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team.

The last Irish driver to participate in a Grand Prix weekend was Ralph Firman in 2003, who competed for Jordan Grand Prix that year.

Alex Dunne says: “It’s an amazing opportunity to be able to drive during FP1 in Austria," said Dunne. "I’m really looking forward to getting laps in behind the wheel of the MCL39 and supporting the team with the setup for the race weekend ahead.”

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.”