Dunne to drive for McLaren in Austrian GP practice

The Austrian Grand Prix will host the first Formula 1 weekend for the first time in 22 years under the guidance of Alex Dunne.

Lando Norris will take the stage for McLaren’s first practice on Friday in place of the championship rival Lando Norris.

McLaren development driver Dunne impressed in his first year competing in the sport, winning two races and leading the championship.

He had his first practice session at Zandvoort in May when he had his first experience driving an outdated Formula 1.

Dunne reportedly had a second test at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, to get ready for his first F1 weekend.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to drive in Austria during FP1.” I’m really looking forward to getting some laps in the MCL39 while also supporting the team during the upcoming race weekend,” said Dunne.

Dunne will become the first Irish driver to compete at a grand prix since 2003’s Ralph Firman.

In 2003, Firman, who was born in England, competed for Jordan on an Irish license.

Eddie Irvine, a former Ferrari and Jaguar driver from Northern Ireland and licensed to race in the UK from 1993 to 2002, was the last Irishman to win an F1 license.

In the 24-race season, F1 teams must provide four practice sessions for drivers who are just starting out.

Pato O’Ward, the IndyCar star, will compete in his native country’s Mexico City Grand Prix in October.

Dunne won his first F2 championship victory at the second round for Rodin Motorsport in Bahrain, and he did it once more at Imola in May.

The Offaly driver also claimed pole position in Monaco after a blistering lap, but after being found fault and being disqualified for a first-corner collision that resulted in him and several other drivers being pulled out of the race.

He then took the lead in the championship with a strong drive in the following round in Barcelona, moving from the 19th place penalty to second, and reclaimed the lead with fifth place in the feature race.

Friday at 12:30 BST will be the first F1 practice session in Austria.