Dunne leaves McLaren's driver development programme

Ireland's Alex Dunne has left McLaren's driver development programme with immediate effect, saying he is "very excited for what's to come".

Formula 2 race winner Dunne impressed on his Formula 1 debut in Austria in June when he finished fourth in opening practice, just 0.069 seconds behind Oscar Piastri.

By driving at the Austrian Grand Prix, he became the first Irish driver to participate in a Formula 1 weekend in 22 years.

Dunne, who joined the team as development driver in May 2024, also took part in first practice at the Italian Grand Prix in September, and McLaren said it had been a "pleasure" to work with the Irish driver.

Posting on social, Dunne said he was "very excited for what's to come", with an eye emoji.

"From today I've mutually decided to part ways with the McLaren Driver Development programme," he said.

"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."

The 19-year-old has won two feature races in his rookie Formula 2 campaign, in Bahrain and Imola, but has dropped out of title contention after a number of technical infringements and collisions.

The final two rounds of the Formula 2 season take place in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

"It has been a pleasure to work with Alex over the last year and to contribute to his growth as a driver," McLaren said.

"We wish Alex all the best for his career going forward."

Championship leaders McLaren have no race seats available for 2026 with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris both under contract.

Red Bull has yet to confirm who will to partner Max Verstappen or take either Racing Bulls seat, while Apline has yet to name who will race alongside Pierre Gasly in 2026.