Alex Dunne, young Irish promise of Formula 2, has recently completed a test with an IndyCar single-seater in Alabama, at a time of great expectation for his sporting future heading into 2027.
Currently, Dunne is in an intense fight for the title of the FIA Formula 2 championship for the 2026 season, with an 18-point disadvantage compared to the leader, Rafael Camara. With only two events remaining, the chances of winning the championship seem viable for the Irish driver.
Regulations and options
The regulations of Formula 2 establish that the champion cannot compete in the series the following year and must seek alternatives. In contrast, those drivers who finish in second place or lower positions do have the option to come back and fight for the title again.
Dunne, who previously was part of the driver development program of McLaren, has hinted at a possible return to Formula 2 if he does not secure the championship. However, his entry into the IndyCar world presents an attractive alternative.
Return to MP Motorsport?
A possible return to MP Motorsport, the team he previously raced for, could be an option if he decides to continue in single-seater competition, ending two seasons with Rodin Motorsport.
During the IndyCar test, Dunne managed to set the fastest time of the session, which included other drivers such as Conor Daly, son of former Formula 1 driver Derek Daly. After just one morning at the wheel, Dunne expressed his satisfaction, highlighting that “I definitely like what I’ve seen so far”.
Passion for IndyCar
In statements to the American outlet RACER, the driver said: “The plane, the track, everything. I’ve loved everything”. He added that the car is “super cool” with more power and aerodynamic force than he is usually accustomed to.
Dunne showed enthusiasm for his adaptation to the vehicle, mentioning that “I was quickly comfortable and I think I was the fastest when I got out of the car in the morning”.
IndyCar has positioned itself as an alternative path for Formula 2 drivers who do not secure a spot in Formula 1. Drivers like Dennis Hauger, Marcus Armstrong, and Christian Lundgaard are recent examples of this transition.
Dunne has acknowledged that, although his dream has always been to be a Formula 1 driver, he understands that, over time, opportunities may diminish. “I’ve always said that the best option for me, and what I would most like to do, has been IndyCar,” he concluded.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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