Flying the Flag
Ireland’s New Generation of Racing Stars
Ireland’s motorsport story runs deep. It’s a blend of raw talent, relentless determination and a touch of the trademark Irish grit. Now, across Europe and beyond, the tricolour is appearing more and more on racing overalls, helmets and podiums; a new generation of Irish drivers carving out space on the international stage. From Formula 3 grids to endurance paddocks, they’re proving that Ireland’s motorsport spirit never faded, it’s simply been waiting for its next chapter.
For years, Irish racing seemed to exist in the shadow of its past. Fans fondly remembered the days of Eddie Irvine, Derek Daly and Tommy Byrne; drivers who made it to motorsport’s biggest stages against all odds. But now, the conversation has shifted. Names like Alex Dunne, James Roe and Adam Fitzgerald are leading a resurgence that feels fresh, fearless and full of potential.
What makes this moment different is the sense of momentum. Irish drivers aren’t just participating, they’re competing, winning and representing Ireland in championships that once felt out of reach. From the tight knit karting circuits of Kildare to the world’s most prestigious paddocks, there’s a new confidence taking hold. Motorsport in Ireland is evolving, and for the first time in a long time, the future looks fast.
Across single-seaters, endurance racing and even American open-wheel series, Ireland’s presence is growing stronger. Alex Dunne, current Formula 2 driver, recent member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme and 2022 British F4 champion, has established himself as one of the brightest young prospects in European motorsport. James Roe has become a fan favourite in IndyNXT, recently testing in IndyCar and proudly flying the Irish flag stateside.
Fionn McLaughlin continues to build his reputation, winning the British F4 championship in his rookie season and debuting in FIA Formula 3 in the coming year. Beyond single-seaters, Irish drivers are thriving in endurance and GT racing, with Charlie Eastwood continuing to impress as part of the Aston Martin factory lineup, regularly competing in world championships and at Le Mans.
Each of these drivers represent more than just an individual success story. They’re part of a collective rise, showing what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. Around them, a new ecosystem of karting programs, sponsors, and grassroots support is slowly taking shape. Young racers are starting to believe that making it to the top is no longer a fantasy.
Of course, challenges remain. Motorsport in Ireland is still heavily dependent on external opportunities. Most drivers have to move abroad to progress. The costs of racing continue to climb, and without a major national series or top-tier circuit, Ireland risks losing talent to countries with stronger infrastructures.
Yet there’s an undeniable sense of hope. The passion for motorsport in Ireland has never been stronger. Mondello Park continues to play a crucial role in developing talent and hosting national events, while initiatives from Motorsport Ireland aim to make the sport more accessible to young drivers. The growing visibility of Irish success abroad is inspiring more kids to start karting, more sponsors to take notice and more fans to follow the sport closely.
And perhaps most importantly, the stories being told, by photographers, journalists and fans, are helping to give Irish motorsport its voice back. The community around racing is expanding, blending traditional passion with a new generation of creators documenting the sport in fresh, creative ways.
Ireland has always been a land of storytellers, and motorsport has found its way into that narrative. From the roar of rally stages through country lanes to the sleek hum of single-seaters across Europe, Irish drivers are writing a new chapter. One defined by resilience, ambition and unity.