Alex Dunne Joins Alpine Academy After McLaren Split and Red Bull Contract Fallout
Summary
Irish driver Alex Dunne, after leaving McLaren and a botched Red Bull deal, signs with Alpine Academy. He will race F2 for Rodin Motorsport in 2026 while chasing a Super Licence.
Alex Dunne’s off‑track saga ends with a confirmed Alpine Academy spot. The Irish driver will race the 2026 F2 season in Alpine‑branded colors for Rodin Motorsport, aiming for the Super Licence points needed for an F1 role.
Why it matters:
- Alpine now has three academy drivers (Dunne, Maini, Mini) competing in F2, giving the team a clear talent pipeline for 2026‑27.
- Dunne’s exit from McLaren and the aborted Red Bull deal show how fiercely top teams compete for rising talent.
- A full Super Licence is required for any reserve or race seat; Dunne’s progress directly influences Alpine’s driver options next season.
The details:
- 2025 performance: 5th in F2, 20 Super Licence points and two McLaren FP1s (29 total).
- Race wins: Bahrain and Imola victories, six podiums; season marred by disqualifications and on‑track incidents.
- McLaren split: left before Singapore GP after an IndyCar push he rejected.
- Red Bull episode: Helmut Marko signed Dunne unilaterally; contract cancelled, Red Bull paid $600 k compensation.
- Alpine deal: Flavio Briatore secured a multi‑year academy contract; Dunne tested a pink BWT‑Alpine car at Barcelona before finalising.
- 2026 plan: stays with Rodin Motorsport alongside Maini and Mini, racing in Alpine livery.
What's next:
- Super Licence target: Dunne needs a top‑five finish in 2026 F2 or extra FP1 points to hit the 40‑point threshold.
- Potential Alpine role: a strong 2026 could earn him an Alpine reserve seat, positioning him for a race seat if a spot opens in 2027.
Original Article :https://www.planetf1.com/news/alex-dunne-alpine-academy-deal-mclaren-red-bull