JACQUES: Why has Alex Dunne left McLaren – and what next for the Irishman eyeing an F1 seat?

Since Go-karting, 19-year-old Alex Dunne has finished every racing season he’s contested with no certainty there would ever be another.

It’s a pressure felt by many in motorsport at this time of year, when the remaining races dwindle and thoughts turn to the next year.

In Dunne’s case, a collaboration with McLaren changed all that. This year the Irishman, originally from Clonbullogue, has notched up two fine Formula 2 wins and seven podiums, all underpinned by superb pace at different types of circuits.