Alex Dunne in the paddock - Photo: Race Pictures

Marko confirms Red Bull talks with Dunne after McLaren release

14:34, 03 Oct

byKada Sarkozi

After GPblog first reported that Alex Dunne was on Red Bull’s radar, advisor Helmut Marko has now confirmed that discussions are underway with the Irishman following his McLaren dismissal.

"He's very like a Red Bull driver."

- Helmut Marko to BBC Sport

On Thursday, McLaren Racing announced that Formula 2 driver Alex Dunne had left their Driver Development Programme. GPblog understands that no agreement could be made on Dunne's programme for next year.

"We're in discussions, now that he's free. He's very aggressive, fast and has good car control," Red Bull top advisor Helmut Marko told BBC Sport.

"He's making lots of mistakes as well, at the moment. But he's very like a Red Bull driver."

In September, GPblog was first to report that the Irishman was on Red Bull Racing's radar.

"We are talking with all fast drivers and he is fast," Marko then told this website about the young driver.

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Alex Dunne getting ready for an FP1 session - Photo: RacePictures

Dunne posts on social media

The Irishman also shared a post after his release on Instagram. He wrote: "From today I’ve mutually decided to part ways with the McLaren Driver Development programme.

"I’d like to thank every individual at McLaren that has helped me develop and improve as a driver.

"To have my first opportunity to drive an F1 car followed by two FP1 sessions is something I’ll always hold very close to my heart, I wish them all the best for the future. Thank you Papaya family. Still two important rounds left to focus on this year, very excited for what’s to come."

Dunne drove in two FP1 sessions this season at the Red Bull Ring and Monza. He is currently fifth in the F2 championship.

Catch GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update video here!

Tim and Jim not only talked about media day in Singapore, but also discussed the situation of Dunne in GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update video! Watch the episode here!