Alex Dunne Receives Grid Penalty After Collision with Teammate in F2 Australian Grand Prix

Melbourne, Australia – Alex Dunne, driving for Rodin Motorsport, has been handed a five-place grid penalty for the next round of the FIA Formula 2 Championship following a collision with teammate Martinius Stenshorne during the Feature Race at the Australian Grand Prix. The incident occurred on the second lap while the pair battled for the lead.

Details of the Incident

Dunne, starting well, was in a close battle with Stenshorne after the opening lap. With DRS enabled, Dunne attempted an overtake after turn 14 but was deemed to have moved across too early, making contact with Stenshorne and ending both drivers’ races. PitDebrief reports that Dunne expressed frustration over team radio, stating, “Yeah… I can see how this year is going to go, nice job. He is never finishing in front of me ever again.” Stenshorne similarly voiced his displeasure, calling Dunne’s move “stupid.”

Stewards’ Decision

Following a review of video evidence and statements from both drivers and team representatives, the FIA stewards determined that Dunne was “predominantly responsible” for the collision. PitDebrief details that Dunne received a 10-second time penalty, which has been converted into a five-place grid drop for the next Feature Race, according to the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Sporting Regulations.

Uncertainty Regarding Next Race Venue

The application of the penalty is currently uncertain due to potential cancellations of the upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. If those events are cancelled, Dunne may serve the penalty at the Monaco Grand Prix. The Sun reports on this uncertainty.

Alex Dunne’s Background

Dunne, an Irish driver born on November 11, 2005, is competing in his second season with Rodin Motorsport. Rodin Motorsport states that Dunne achieved multiple podiums and two feature race wins in his rookie year. He is also supported by the Alpine Academy. Alpine F1 announced that Dunne will race with an Alpine livery on his Rodin Motorsport machine.