Irish driver Alex Dunne parts ways with McLaren Racing 

It appears no reason was given for this surprise exit, but much is expected of the current Motorsport Ireland International Driver of the Year award winner, who is hotly tipped to make the breakthrough to Formula 1.

SHOCK EXIT: Alex Dunne. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.

Offaly's Alex Dunne (19) has, following a mutual agreement, parted ways with the McLaren Driver Development programme. 

In a statement on his Facebook page on Thursday morning, Dunne, one of the brightest stars in world motor racing - said: "From today I’ve mutually decided to part ways with the McLaren Driver Development programme.