McLaren confirm driver REPLACEMENT in official announcement

McLaren confirm driver REPLACEMENT in official announcement after…..read more

McLaren has confirmed a driver replacement in their lineup, finalizing their plans for the 2025 season. The team’s successful Formula 1 duo, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, helped secure McLaren’s first Constructors’ Championship title since 1998 last year. Both drivers are now focused on launching bids for the Drivers’ Championship in 2025.

McLaren’s ambitions extend beyond F1, as the team continues to invest in the future through its extensive driver development program. Among the promising talents in their ranks are Ugo Ugochukwu, a rising star, and Pato O’Ward, who has impressed in IndyCar. Additionally, Bianca Bustamante will represent McLaren in the 2024 F1 Academy. Another notable member of McLaren’s young driver program is 19-year-old Irishman Alex Dunne, who has recently been given a new role within the team.

Dunne’s promotion comes after a reshuffle within the McLaren family. The NEOM McLaren Formula E team has made changes to its driver lineup for the 2024/2025 season, with Taylor Barnard being elevated from a reserve driver to a full-time seat alongside Sam Bird. Barnard had previously substituted for the injured Bird last season. With Barnard’s promotion, a spot became available, and McLaren has now chosen to promote Dunne into the role of reserve and development driver for the Formula E team.

In an official statement, Dunne expressed his enthusiasm for his new role and the opportunities it offers. “I’m excited to be joining the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team as reserve and development driver,” Dunne said. “Being part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme is an excellent opportunity for me to refine my skills, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the team and learning as much as I can.” His role will see him step in to race if either Sam Bird or Taylor Barnard is unable to compete during the season.

Dunne’s appointment reflects McLaren’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing valuable experience for young drivers across various motorsport disciplines. As a member of the NEOM McLaren Formula E team, he will have the chance to further his development while supporting the team in the highly competitive electric racing series.

The next round of Formula E, the Mexico E-Prix, is scheduled for this weekend, marking the second round of the current season. As the season progresses, McLaren’s driver lineup in Formula E is set to be an exciting mix of established talent and rising stars, with Dunne now playing a crucial role in their development efforts.