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McLaren Announces Driver Replacement in Formula E Roster Update
McLaren has confirmed a key driver change within its racing program as it finalizes its 2025 lineup. While the Formula 1 division remains unchanged, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri leading the charge after securing the team’s first Constructors’ Championship since 1998, McLaren continues to refine its broader driver development strategy.
The team’s commitment to nurturing young talent extends beyond F1, with rising stars like Ugo Ugochukwu, IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward, and F1 Academy representative Bianca Bustamante all playing crucial roles in McLaren’s future plans. Another promising talent in their development pipeline is 19-year-old Irish driver Alex Dunne, who has now been handed an important new position following a recent reshuffle within the NEOM McLaren Formula E team.
Dunne Steps Up as Reserve and Development Driver
The NEOM McLaren Formula E team recently adjusted its lineup for the 2024/25 season, promoting Taylor Barnard to a full-time race seat alongside Sam Bird. Barnard had previously served as the team’s reserve driver, stepping in for Bird during an injury-related absence last season. With his move to a permanent race role, a gap was left in the team’s reserve lineup, creating an opportunity for another young driver to step up.
To fill this vacancy, McLaren has now confirmed that Alex Dunne will take over as the reserve and development driver for the upcoming Formula E season. The young Irish racer, who has been competing in Formula 3, will now be tasked with supporting the team and preparing to step in should either Bird or Barnard be unable to race.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Dunne shared his excitement in an official statement:
“I’m excited to be joining the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team as reserve and development driver. Working with NEOM McLaren as part of my experience in the McLaren Driver Development programme is an excellent opportunity to hone my skills. I’m looking forward to doing what I can to support the team and learn as much as possible.”
A Growing Opportunity for Dunne
Dunne’s appointment to this role marks another step in his development within the McLaren ecosystem. As a reserve driver, he will have the chance to integrate further into the team, gain valuable experience, and familiarize himself with the inner workings of Formula E—an increasingly competitive and technologically advanced series.
McLaren’s decision to place Dunne in this position highlights the team’s commitment to preparing its young talents for future success. Given the growing crossover between Formula E, Formula 1, and other racing series, this role could serve as a stepping stone for Dunne in his long-term career ambitions.
Formula E returns this weekend with the highly anticipated Mexico E-Prix, where McLaren will look to build on its early-season momentum. While Dunne’s primary role will be in a supporting capacity for now, his new position ensures he will be ready to step in at any moment, should the team require his services.
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