Whispers in the paddock suggest that Irish prodigy Alex Dunne is on the cusp of a monumental shift in his racing career, with negotiations heating up for a coveted reserve driver position at Alpine for the 2026 season. This comes in the wake of a tumultuous 2025 that saw the 20-year-old’s aspirations for a Formula 1 seat take a hit, despite his undeniable talent shining through in the McLaren Young Driver Programme.
Dunne’s journey took a promising turn when he showcased his skills during two practice sessions in 2025, with a jaw-dropping fourth-place finish in Austria marking his debut. However, a significant setback occurred when, just as autumn set in, he parted ways with the McLaren team, leaving many fans questioning his next move. Speculation swirled about a potential switch to Red Bull as a third driver, but that dream fizzled out after initial buzz following the Italian Grand Prix.
Now, with his sights firmly set on the future, Dunne is set to continue competing in Formula 2 with Rodin for the upcoming season. Yet, fresh reports indicate that negotiations are advancing rapidly with Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive consultant. This partnership could see Dunne stepping into a crucial reserve and development role, a significant leap for the young racer.
Even though he has yet to accumulate the points necessary for a full FIA Super License, which would enable him to officially compete in F1, Dunne remains eligible to test the car during practice sessions. This dual path allows him to hone his skills on the world stage while solidifying his position in F2. As the motorsport world watches closely, the potential of Alex Dunne at Alpine could herald the rise of a new star in Formula 1. The coming months could be pivotal for this young talent, as he stands on the brink of a career-defining opportunity.
