McLaren announce driver CHANGE in official statement

McLaren have announced a driver replacement

Sam Cook Digital Journalist

Sports Journalist who has been covering motorsport since 2023

Sunday 12 January 2025 15:00 Updated: 15:22

McLaren have announced a driver change for 2025 in an official statement.

The team claimed the constructors' title for the first time since 1998 last year, as the pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri ensured a strong showing from McLaren in 2024.

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McLaren's young driver programme stretches way beyond F1, however, with the team planning for the future with the likes of Ugo Ugochukwu, Pato O'Ward and Bianca Bustamante.

Another member of that programme includes 19-year-old Irishman Alex Dunne, who has now been given a new role as the team confirm a driver replacement.

Alex Dunne has been given a new role in Formula E

Dunne promoted into McLaren role

Barnard's promotion, however, left a spot on the roster vacant, with the team now promoting F3 racer Dunne into the role of reserve and development driver for 2024/25.

In an official statement, Dunne expressed his excitement at his new role, being there to step in for Bird or Barnard should they falter in the remainder of the season.

"I’m excited to be joining the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team as reserve and development driver," Dunne said.

"Working with NEOM McLaren as part of my experience in the McLaren Driver Development programme is an excellent opportunity to hone my skills. I'm looking forward to doing what I can to support the team and learn as much as possible."

Welcome, Alex. 🤝

We are pleased to confirm that alongside his McLaren Driver Development duties, Alex Dunne will join the team as the official Reserve and Development Driver for Season 11 of @FIAFormulaE pic.twitter.com/eI7R7Smuz9
— NEOM McLaren FE (@McLarenFE) January 10, 2025