Irish racing driver, Alex Dunne has joined Alpine Academy for the 2026 season.
Dunne previously spent a year-and-a-half with McLaren but opted to leave their driver development programme due to his belief that there was a lack of progressive F1 opportunities with the team, owing to the form and long term commitment of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
The 20-year-old Irish driver has now signed with Alpine Academy as he gears up for his second season in F2 with Rodin, having finished fifth in his rookie season with two wins and six further podium finishes.
Upon confirmation of his move to Alpine, Dunne revealed that he is “really happy” to take the “next step” in his career, as he thanked Alpine for giving him the chance after he left McLaren.
“I am very grateful for the trust the team has in me to represent the team and the brand on the global stage in FIA Formula 2, which has proven to be the perfect place to progress young drivers into professional racing roles.”
He proceeded to explain that his target for this season is to fight for the F2 title and reward Alpine for their decision to sign him onto their academy programme.
“Naturally, after a competitive season in 2025, the goal this year is to fight for the Drivers’ Championship.
“Last year was a great experience on many fronts. Lots learned, lots gained, some challenges along the way, but everything has made me a better driver, a better person, and I aim to give my all for Alpine and doing my best as an Alpine Academy driver.
“It would be great to reward the team for their faith with wins and podiums and I am excited to work together with everyone in this next chapter of my career.”
Alpine’s Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore added that the team “are pleased” to sign Dunne after his strong 2025 season, in which he impressed for McLaren in F1 Practice sessions.
“His performances in FIA Formula 2 and also his Free Practice sessions in Formula One last year were impressive and he is clearly a very talented young driver with pure, natural speed.
“We have a talented pool of drivers in Formula 2 with Gabriele Mini and Kush Maini. We look forward to watching the three of them compete in FIA Formula 2 in 2026 where the goal is very clear: to win the Drivers’ Championship.”
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