Young McLaren driver, Alex Dunne, expressed his gratitude towards the team for his “special” FP1 debut at the Austrian Grand Prix. Making his mark by clinching a remarkable fourth place in the times, Dunne showcased his potential on the track.
Reflecting on his experience, the Irishman shared the exhilaration of lining up behind Lewis Hamilton at the pit lane before the session commenced. Dunne described the moment as “very, very special” to him, underlining the excitement and honor he felt in that situation.
Despite the success in FP1, Dunne faced challenges in the F2 qualifying session, where he secured the seventh position on the grid, just 0.2s behind the pole. The young driver admitted that transitioning back to the F2 car after the F1 session posed greater difficulties, emphasizing the contrasting driving styles and the exceptional grip of the F1 car.
Speaking about the difference between the two categories, Dunne acknowledged the ease of stepping up to F1 due to its superior grip and capabilities. However, he highlighted the complexities of readjusting to the F2 car, indicating the nuances in driving techniques required for each category.
As Dunne continues to make his mark in the world of motorsport, his performance at the Austrian Grand Prix serves as a testament to his skill and adaptability on the track. With a promising future ahead, all eyes are on this rising star as he navigates through the challenges and triumphs of professional racing.