McLaren have confirmed that Formula Two standings leader Alex Dunne will take part in the first practice session at this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix.

Dunne, a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme since May 2024, will replace championship challenger Lando Norris at the Red Bull Ring. 

The 19-year-old will become the first Irish driver to participate in an F1 weekend since Ralph Firman in 2003, who competed for Jordan Ford 22 years ago. 

Dunne currently races for Rodin Motorsport in F2, and he sits three points ahead of second-placed Richard Verschoor in the championship. 

He prepared for his first practice session by getting his first drive in an old F1 car at Zandvoort in May.

It is understood Dunne had a second test at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, to further prepare for his first F1 weekend.

Alex Dunne to take part in FP1 in Austria!

We can't wait to see you get behind the wheel of the MCL39 #McLaren

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) June 23, 2025

"It's an amazing opportunity to be able to drive during FP1 in Austria," said Dunne. 

"I'm really looking forward to getting laps in behind the wheel of the MCL39 and supporting the team with the set-up for the race weekend ahead. 

"I've been preparing well for the sessions, taking part in testing of previous cars and spending time on the simulator, which has been a fantastic learning experience."