Dunne returns for McLaren at Italian Grand Prix practice session

As his international motor racing prowess continues to rise, Alex Dunne will return to drive for McLaren in Formula 1 first practice at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza on Friday.

The Clonbullogue native made sporting history in June when he became the first Offaly sportsperson to participate in Formula 1 practice at the Austrian Grand Prix.

The 19 year old then deputised for F1 championship challenger, Lando Norris, behind the wheel of the MCL39 for a practice session at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg.

It turned out to be a milestone moment for the current Formula 2 driver as he impressed with a fourth placed finish in the session.

Post practice session he described the occasion as the "best day of his life" and he will be hoping to replicate such a feeling when he returns to F1 surroundings on Friday.

Dunne remains in firm contention for the 2025 Formula 2 Drivers' Championship, 30 points adrift of competition leader Leonardo Fornaroli with four rounds of this year's competition remaining.