Alpine have confirmed that Formula 2 driver Alex Dunne has joined their young driver programme ahead of the 2026 season.
The 20-year-old Irishman, who will race for Rodin Motorsport this year, becomes a full member of the Alpine Academy after leaving McLaren’s Driver Development Programme in October. Dunne took part in two Free Practice 1 sessions for McLaren at last year’s Austrian and Italian Grands Prix, notably posting the fourth-fastest time in Spielberg.
Dunne will carry Alpine livery on his F2 car when the championship begins in Australia. After an impressive debut F2 season in 2025 — which included two wins, two pole positions and eight podiums en route to fifth in the standings — he has set his sights on the title in 2026.
“I am really happy to be joining the Alpine Academy and making this next step in my racing career,” Dunne said. “I am very grateful for the trust the team has in me to represent the team and the brand on the global stage in FIA Formula 2. After a competitive season in 2025, the goal this year is to fight for the Drivers’ Championship. Last year taught me a lot and made me a better driver and person; I aim to give my all for Alpine and reward the team with wins and podiums.”
Flavio Briatore, Alpine Executive Advisor, welcomed Dunne, saying his F2 performances and Formula 1 practice outings last year demonstrated clear talent and natural speed. Briatore noted Alpine’s strong F2 lineup — including Gabriele Mini and Kush Maini — and stressed the team’s objective for 2026: to win the Drivers’ Championship.