McLaren have decided to replace Lando Norris with upcoming Formula 2 star Alex Dunne during first practice for the Austrian Grand Prix.
Norris, who trails teammate Oscar Piastri by 22 points in the drivers’ championship, retired from the last race in Montreal.
The two McLaren drivers collided spectacularly for the first time on track, leaving the Briton’s car parked at the side of the road before turn one, leaving Canada with no points.
Last year’s Austrian Grand Prix was the site of Norris’ last non-points before the previous race, as he collided late on with Max Verstappen. Interestingly, he was classified as a finisher at both events due to both incidents happening right at the end of the respective Grands Prix.
McLaren have identified a ‘world-class’ F1 driver if Norris leaves and are prepared not to be caught napping if tensions within the organisation rise.
The other problem is that McLaren face a ‘terrifying’ problem developing Norris’ car because they’re unsure when to divert their attention to the 2026 F1 regulations. It could leave them at a disadvantage.
Photo by Stefano Facchin/Alessio Morgese /NurPhoto via Getty Images
McLaren fans are excited to see Alex Dunne replace Lando Norris for FP1 at the Austrian Grand Prix
Norris does not like how McLaren are treating him according to Ralf Schumacher, after a difficult weekend in Canada.
And now he will be missing an important practice session at the upcoming race in Spielberg as Formula 2 championship leader Alex Dunne climbs into the cockpit.
Fans on X (formerly known as Twitter) have taken to social media to share their excitement about the Irishman’s official Formula 1 debut.
“As a young talent from the McLaren Driver Development Programme, this is a huge step,” wrote one fan who wants to see what he can do.
“Already planning Lando’s replacement,” wrote another.
“Awesome Alex!!” and “Have fun Alex!!” were other replies from those who want to see what the 19-year-old can do.
“Let’s go Dunne. Our next big driver,” was the message from another supporter, while the final words from this fan were a nice touch, “Such exciting news!”
What might McLaren do with Alex Dunne if he wins the 2025 Formula 2 title?
As is common knowledge, both current McLaren drivers are on lucrative contracts. Norris’ deal runs until the 2028 season, while Piastri’s does until 2030.
It means that for the next three seasons after this year, there isn’t likely to be a place at the team without a surprise move.
If Dunne were to win the Formula 2 title, there would be two main options for him to take. Current Sauber driver Gabriel Bortoleto is a good example.
He was a McLaren junior driver last year and left them to explore a route onto the grid, leaving their ranks. Leaving could scupper Dunne’s chances of a drive with them in the future, though.
The alternative is for them to find him a seat, if they back his abilities enough, and loan him to a rival until they’re ready to house him.
