Offaly’s own Alex Dunne is preparing for a high-stakes race weekend in Bahrain as the FIA Formula 2 Championship heads to the desert for Round 2 of the season. The 19-year-old Irish driver is entering the race with growing momentum and confidence after a solid debut showing in Melbourne.
Driving for Rodin Motorsport, Dunne is already attracting attention in the paddock, not just for his talent but for his poise under pressure. As one of the youngest drivers on the F2 grid, he has already begun making his mark in one of the most competitive feeder series in motorsport.
Strong Start in Australia
Dunne’s F2 journey began with the opening round in Melbourne, Australia. It wasn’t a perfect weekend—far from it—but it offered a glimpse of his raw speed and determination. He qualified an impressive fifth on the grid but was handed a 10-place grid penalty due to a red flag infringement in practice. Despite that setback, Dunne fought his way from 16th to 9th in the Sprint Race, scoring points on his Formula 2 debut.
Unfortunately, the Feature Race was cancelled due to extreme weather conditions, denying him the chance to further show what he could do across a full race distance. Still, Dunne left Australia with his head held high and a valuable first experience in F2 under his belt.
Speaking after the event, Dunne said he was happy with the overall performance. “The pace was really strong,” he noted. “Considering the crash in my first push lap in free practice and the grid penalty, we made the best of the situation. The car felt great, and the team has been doing a fantastic job.”
Ready for the Bahrain Test
With Australia behind him, all focus now shifts to the Bahrain International Circuit—a track known for its abrasive surface, fast straights, and demanding braking zones. It’s a real test of a driver’s ability to manage tire wear and stay consistent under pressure, especially under the lights in the evening races.
Dunne has some experience at this circuit from his time in junior categories and recent pre-season testing. He completed a strong number of laps during the in-season tests, focusing on race pace, tire strategy, and qualifying simulation. That time behind the wheel could prove invaluable as he tackles the full race weekend.
Bahrain is a track that often rewards calculated aggression, and Dunne has already shown he can deliver measured drives under tricky circumstances. His goal this weekend? To qualify well, stay out of trouble, and collect more points for both himself and Rodin Motorsport.
From Ireland to the International Stage
Alex Dunne’s rise through the racing ranks has been swift but well-earned. Starting his karting career in Ireland, he quickly moved into single-seaters and began making headlines with his natural speed and mature racecraft. In 2022, he claimed the British F4 Championship title with 11 wins and was also runner-up in the Italian F4 series. A year later, he raced in the GB3 Championship, where he picked up five wins and finished second overall in the standings.
In 2023, he stepped into the FIA Formula 3 Championship with MP Motorsport, scoring two podiums and earning the respect of rivals and engineers alike. His performances in F3, coupled with his rapid development, made him a strong candidate for promotion to F2.
Dunne’s progress also caught the eye of McLaren. In early 2024, he was announced as a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, a sign that one of Formula 1’s most historic teams sees real long-term potential in the young Irishman. He also currently serves as a reserve and development driver for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team.
What’s at Stake in Bahrain
This weekend’s race in Bahrain is about more than just points. It’s an opportunity for Dunne to show consistency, race craft, and adaptability—key traits for anyone eyeing a future in Formula 1. The spotlight will be on him not just because of his Irish roots, but because he represents the next generation of potential F1 stars.
With the field stacked with talent, from seasoned F2 campaigners to fellow rookies, it won’t be an easy race. However, Dunne’s combination of calm under pressure and hunger for success could give him the edge, especially on a circuit that tends to reward smart tire management and late-race moves.
The weekend will consist of Friday qualifying, Saturday’s Sprint Race, and the all-important Feature Race on Sunday evening. Dunne will be looking to make an impact in both, and if all goes well, he could walk away with another strong haul of points.
Support Back Home
Back in Ireland, there’s growing excitement around Dunne’s career. As one of the few Irish drivers currently competing at such a high level in international motorsport, he carries the hopes of a proud motorsport nation. Fans from Offaly and across the country have been rallying behind him, celebrating his steady rise through the ranks and cheering on every success.
There hasn’t been an Irish driver in Formula 1 since Ralph Firman in 2003, and many believe Dunne could be the next to take that leap—provided he continues on his current path of progression.
Eyes on the Future
While the F2 season is still young, every weekend counts. Performances now are critical, especially with Formula 1 teams constantly scouting the next big thing. With backing from McLaren, a supportive team at Rodin Motorsport, and natural talent to spare, Dunne is in an excellent position to make the most of this opportunity.
The Bahrain Grand Prix weekend could be a turning point for him—not just a test of driving skill, but a chance to show the world that he belongs at the very top of motorsport.
As the cars roll out onto the desert track, all eyes will be on Car #22. Whether it’s fighting through the field or battling up front, Alex Dunne is ready to race.
Bahrain Trains Next Generation of Watchmakers with Swiss Precision
