Red Bull's Interest in McLaren's Alex Dunne

(GMM) Dr Helmut Marko has confirmed speculation linking Alex Dunne with a Red Bull-owned Formula 1 seat.

The 19-year-old Irishman’s split from McLaren’s junior program was announced in Singapore, sparking immediate rumors of a switch to Red Bull.

Speaking to Sky Deutschland in Singapore, Marko admitted discussions are underway.

“Alex Dunne is a very fast, aggressive, young driver. He’s a good fit for Red Bull. Now that he’s available, he’s someone we’ll definitely be talking to,” he said.

Marko did caution that Dunne has been “making a lot of mistakes”, but his comments underline that there is substance to the paddock chatter.

Dr Helmut Marko, Team Consultant of Oracle Red Bull Racing arrives in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Singapore at Marina Bay Street Circuit on October 03, 2025 in Singapore, Singapore. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool //

The driver situation at Red Bull remains wide open beyond Max Verstappen, who is the only guaranteed fixture for 2026. Isack Hadjar is under contract, but it is not yet clear if he will be promoted to the senior squad or remain as team leader at Racing Bulls.

Yuki Tsunoda is tipped to depart for Aston Martin as a Honda-backed reserve, while Arvid Lindblad is expected to graduate into Formula 1 with Racing Bulls. Liam Lawson’s future is uncertain, but he is likely to secure a second season.

Speculation also continues about Alex Albon returning to Red Bull as Verstappen’s teammate.

A team spokesman told Sport1: “A decision on who will drive alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing in 2026 has not been made, nor has a decision been made on who will get the two seats at Racing Bulls.”

October 3, 2025

(GMM) The Red Bull stable’s 2026 lineup remains unsettled, with fresh intrigue following Alex Dunne’s (pictured) sudden departure from McLaren’s young driver program.

The Irish teenager, recently praised by Dr Helmut Marko and spotted in talks with the Austrian, confirmed he has split with McLaren in a year that included an F1 test and two FP1 outings.

“From today I’ve mutually decided to part ways with the McLaren Driver Development program,” Dunne said.

McLaren wished him well, while speculation immediately linked him to the Red Bull system. A spokesman, however, was cautious. “Alex is a talented driver who is of interest to many in the paddock.

“However, Red Bull will only comment on drivers already in our program.”

McLaren Racing has ended its contract with McLaren Driver Development Programme member Alex Dunne.

It has been a pleasure to work with Alex over the last year and to contribute to his growth as a driver.

We wish Alex all the best for his career going forward.#McLaren pic.twitter.com/Ll46rVgF8l

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) October 2, 2025

Marko has already admitted that only Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar are guaranteed contracts for 2026. Hadjar, currently impressing at Racing Bulls, is expected either to move up alongside Verstappen or continue leading the junior outfit.

“It’s a good position to be in,” Hadjar said in Singapore. “But at the same time my whole career I’ve been used to having to chase until the very final race.

“It definitely takes out a bit of pressure.”

Yuki Tsunoda, meanwhile, is increasingly tipped to leave Red Bull Racing for a reserve role at Aston Martin. “I haven’t spoken to Helmut yet about my future,” the Japanese driver admitted.

“For me it’s clear – I just have to show what I can do every week. I’ve had more confidence lately, and I’m gradually understanding the car better, so things are definitely going in the right direction.”

As for Liam Lawson, the New Zealander concedes he is still waiting anxiously. “No, normally the calls from Helmut only come after a bad race, so I haven’t heard much,” he smiled.

“Honestly, I’d like to know tomorrow, but in this industry, it’s not unusual to stay on edge. Until I have an answer, I’ll keep focusing on scoring points and good races.”