Gabriel Bortoleto: Brazil’s Rising Star Embarking on His F1 Journey with Sauber
Brazil's Gabriel Bortoleto is set to make history as the country's first full-time F1 driver since 2017, joining Sauber after impressive junior success.
Gabriel Bortoleto is making headlines as Brazil’s first full-time Formula 1 driver since 2017, joining Sauber in 2025 after winning back-to-back FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships in his rookie seasons. Here’s why his journey matters:
- Historic Achievements: Bortoleto is one of only seven drivers to win the F2 title in their debut season, with standout performances like a last-to-first victory at Monza.
- Sauber’s Transition: His signing aligns with Sauber’s strategy as they prepare for Audi’s full integration by 2026, positioning him as a key part of their rebuilding efforts.
- Brazil’s Motorsport Legacy: Representing a country with 101 F1 wins and legends like Ayrton Senna, Bortoleto’s debut reignites Brazil’s F1 presence after an eight-year absence.
Bortoleto’s technical skill, mental toughness, and adaptability make him a promising talent in F1’s next generation. His partnership with Sauber signals both a personal milestone and a pivotal step in the team’s evolution.
Early Career and Junior Racing Success
Karting and Junior Formula Success
Gabriel Bortoleto’s racing journey began at just seven years old, and it didn’t take long for him to make waves. His standout moment came in the 2018 karting season when he clinched third place in both the European and World Championships of karting. These performances quickly put him on the radar of junior racing teams across Europe.
The transition to single-seaters marked a big step in his career. In 2020, racing with Prema Powerteam in the Italian Formula 4 Championship, Bortoleto hit a major milestone. At Mugello, he started Race 2 from pole position and went on to claim his first single-seater victory. It was a defining moment, affirming his bold decision to leave Brazil and chase his dreams in Europe.
In his debut F4 season, Bortoleto demonstrated impressive consistency, securing five podiums and finishing fifth overall in the championship standings. Competing in the Italian F4 series, a breeding ground for future Formula 1 stars, gave him the perfect stage to refine his racecraft and prove he was ready for the next level.
Formula 3 and Formula 2 Performance
Bortoleto joined Trident for the 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship, and his rookie season was nothing short of extraordinary. Right out of the gate, he grabbed pole position and a feature race victory in Bahrain, establishing himself as a serious contender for the title.
Throughout the F3 season, his consistency was unmatched. He scored points in 24 out of 27 races, missing out in only three. This included an impressive streak of 13 consecutive points-scoring finishes. His ability to consistently deliver results, even in challenging conditions, set him apart.
Reflecting on his approach, Bortoleto said:
"I was always able to be very close and in the points for what the car gave me... I feel like I was always able to get something out of the car".
One of his standout performances came at Monaco, a notoriously difficult track in F3. Despite facing car issues, he managed a fifth-place finish in the Feature Race. By the end of the season, Bortoleto had secured the championship with a commanding 45-point lead, clinching the title before the final round. His dominant F3 campaign set high expectations for his move to Formula 2.
In 2024, Bortoleto joined Invicta Racing for his rookie Formula 2 season, and he delivered a spectacular performance. His campaign featured 2 wins, 8 podiums, and 2 pole positions. The most memorable moment came at Monza, where a qualifying spin left him starting the feature race from the back of the grid.
What followed was nothing short of legendary. Bortoleto became the first driver in F2 history to win a race starting from last on the grid. Taking advantage of a safety car period, he showcased flawless tire management and strategic brilliance, cementing his place in Formula 2 history. His comeback victory drew comparisons to some of Formula 1’s most iconic drives, proving his mental toughness and ability to thrive under pressure.
Andy Roche, his team principal at Invicta Racing, reflected on Bortoleto’s remarkable growth:
"Gabriel has just grown and grown all year long. Got better and better and got to his strongest right at the end. But he deserves it, he really does".
"His capabilities to learn and grow are just immense. I think you'll see someone very special in F1 over the next couple of years, I really do", Roche added.
Bortoleto’s rapid rise through the ranks highlighted his adaptability, teamwork, and resilience. These traits, combined with his championship-winning mindset, solidified Sauber’s belief in his potential as they brought him into their Formula 1 program.
Sauber's Strategy and Bortoleto Signing
Bortoleto's Role in Sauber's Plans
Sauber's decision to bring Gabriel Bortoleto on board is a clear move tied to their strategy of integrating Audi into the team by 2026. The choice reflects their belief in his potential and the alignment of his development timeline with their broader rebuilding efforts.
With Nico Hulkenberg’s technical expertise complementing Bortoleto’s arrival, the young driver is positioned as a cornerstone for Sauber’s future, particularly as they transition into the Audi era. Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Sauber Motorsport AG, highlighted the significance of this signing:
"We are currently witnessing a generational shift in Formula One, with young drivers immediately making an impact. By signing Gabriel Bortoleto, we have secured one of these top talents. His signing underscores Audi's long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1".
Sauber’s insistence on securing Bortoleto for the long haul demonstrates their commitment to building a team around his abilities. Mattia Binotto, Sauber’s COO and CTO, praised Bortoleto’s growth and adaptability:
"I've seen that his career has proved [he is a fantastic and high-potential driver] through what he has achieved, what he is achieving. The way he is driving impressed me and more than that, as I told him, is his capacity to develop, improve and progress through the season itself".
Bortoleto’s success in championships and his ability to improve during a season make him a perfect match for a team undergoing transformation. His arrival invites comparisons with Sauber’s history of nurturing talented rookies, setting the stage for his potential to shine.
Comparison with Previous Sauber Rookies
Sauber has a strong track record of identifying and supporting promising young drivers, and Bortoleto’s arrival fits into this legacy. Beat Zehnder, a long-time figure at Sauber, compared Bortoleto to Charles Leclerc, one of the team’s most celebrated rookies:
"He shows significant self-criticism... For me he's probably like Charles, on the same level in terms of working ethics, working together with the engineers... I really sincerely hope that we are able to give him during the course of this season, to give him a car which enables him to score points because he deserves it. He's an excellent driver".
Leclerc’s ability to work closely with engineers and make the most of his car’s potential is a blueprint Sauber hopes Bortoleto can follow. If Bortoleto secures an F2 championship, he would join an elite group of drivers - George Russell and Charles Leclerc - who have won both F3 and F2 titles in their debut seasons.
The young driver has also received endorsements from Formula 1 stars. Max Verstappen publicly supported Bortoleto for the Sauber seat, while Oscar Piastri argued he deserved an F1 promotion rather than being left on the sidelines.
Learning from past experiences, Sauber has worked to ensure Bortoleto’s entry into Formula 1 is supported by strong guidance, avoiding the risks of rushing a young talent into the spotlight. Bortoleto himself expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity:
"This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports. Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honour. Beyond simply being a member, I aim to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport".
With a significant portion of the Formula 1 grid expected to feature rookies in 2025, Sauber’s approach to developing Bortoleto will be closely observed as the team continues its transformation.
Formula One Readiness and Preparation
Technical Skills for Formula One
Gabriel Bortoleto's technical expertise and consecutive Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships in 2023 and 2024 showcase his readiness for Formula One. By securing back-to-back titles, he joins an elite group of drivers that includes Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Oscar Piastri.
What truly sets Bortoleto apart is his sharp strategic thinking. Red Bull's motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, highlighted this quality, saying:
"He's a very intelligent racer... He tends to stay out of trouble. In Formula 2, he had only two wins. He's a driver who brings the car home, has a solid grasp of strategy and tyre management, but I don't see that ultimate speed in him."
Bortoleto's ability to execute consistent performances is evident from moments like his pole position in Bahrain and an impressive last-to-first victory in Monza. His mastery of tire management and car preservation aligns well with the demands of Formula One, where such skills are crucial.
However, Bortoleto acknowledges that his aggressive driving style needs adjustment for F1 machinery. Reflecting on this, he shared:
"I was an aggressive driver but could adapt to what the car liked. In order to adapt to the F1 cars, he must smoothen out his aggressive style, only driving how the car likes to be handled."
His first F1 test in Abu Dhabi served as a significant milestone, where he completed 130 laps (426.5 miles). The test offered a glimpse into his ability to handle the performance jump from Formula 2 to Formula 1. He remarked:
"F1 cars are so much quicker, it's definitely very different from Formula 2 obviously, but I'm looking forward to this new chapter. I am even more proud to be part of this team now and excited to see what we can achieve together next year."
Beyond technical skill, Bortoleto's dedication to physical and mental preparation further underscores his readiness for the top tier of motorsport.
Physical and Mental Training
Standing at 6 feet (1.84 m), Bortoleto has tailored his fitness regimen to meet the physical demands of Formula One. His training focuses on strength, cardiovascular endurance, and reflexes to handle the intense G-forces and cockpit conditions.
Equally impressive is his mental resilience. Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso praised Bortoleto's dedication and maturity:
"That has been probably the most impressive thing. Since day one, he was very committed to work hard for his dreams – already in FRECA but then in Formula 3 and then Formula 2, each race was very well prepared and a very mature approach."
Bortoleto's time in McLaren's simulator has also been a key factor in preparing him for the technological complexities of Formula One. During pre-season testing in Bahrain, he worked closely with his experienced teammate Nico Hulkenberg, fine-tuning his setup and learning from the team's feedback. Reflecting on his progress, he noted:
"I've improved massively through the season. I think the speed was already there from the beginning, but the main thing for me was racecraft, saving the tyres and dealing with the car."
These deliberate efforts, both on and off the track, position Bortoleto as a crucial player in Sauber's evolution during their transition to the Audi era.
Brazil's Formula One Return
Brazilian Formula One Heritage
Gabriel Bortoleto steps into a rich legacy of Brazilian excellence in Formula One. Over the decades, Brazil has produced legendary champions like Emerson Fittipaldi, Nelson Piquet, and Ayrton Senna, each of whom left an indelible mark on the sport. Ayrton Senna, in particular, is celebrated as one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history, with 41 race wins and 80 podium finishes to his name. His influence is so profound that in a survey of 217 Formula One drivers ranking the top 10 drivers of all time, Senna secured the top spot.
Globally, only the UK and Germany surpass Brazil in world titles and race wins. Brazilian drivers have participated in 812 Grands Prix, with 1,972 entries and 1,854 starts, achieving 101 wins, 293 podiums, 126 pole positions, and 88 fastest laps. Beyond the iconic champions, drivers like Rubens Barrichello and Felipe Massa also made significant contributions, each securing more than ten wins during their careers. In total, Brazil has fielded 33 Formula One drivers, a testament to its deep motorsport tradition. However, the country has endured a 16-year drought since Rubens Barrichello's last Grand Prix win in 2009. This gap has only amplified the hopes placed on Bortoleto, who is seen as a beacon for a new era.
"Definitely I feel it, you know, and it's obvious because everyone that represents a country, and you are the only one doing that in this series, you end up feeling that from the fans and everyone. It doesn't matter what position we are in right now, because I'm sure we are going to get better in the future as a team and everything, but having someone on the grid is super important to keep our country alive in this sport."
Bortoleto embraces this legacy with remarkable composure. Instead of being weighed down by comparisons to Senna or other Brazilian greats, he views his journey as a way to honor the past while laying the foundation for Brazil's motorsport future.
Market Appeal and Fan Base Growth
Bortoleto's presence on the grid has already begun to reignite Brazil's passion for motorsport. The country remains one of Formula One's largest TV markets, and his rise coincides with a surge in interest. Between 2019 and 2024, Brazilian enthusiasm for motorsport grew by 63%, according to a 2024 survey. His entry into Formula One is poised to amplify this momentum, drawing in both seasoned fans and new audiences.
Motorsport analyst Julianne Cerasoli emphasized the significance of having a Brazilian driver back in the sport:
"They said Formula 1 would die in Brazil without a driver from the country. That didn't happen, but the potential for growth with a Brazilian back on the grid is enormous."
Sauber's decision to bring Bortoleto on board aligns with both their technical ambitions and the broader goal of tapping into Brazil's motorsport heritage. The Brazilian Grand Prix, held at São Paulo's Interlagos circuit since 1973, remains a cornerstone of the Formula One calendar, with a contract extending through 2030. A passionate local fanbase could drive increased merchandise sales, sponsorship deals, and TV ratings. Additionally, Bortoleto's success in junior categories, including back-to-back wins in Formula 3 and Formula 2, has already generated significant excitement among fans, raising expectations for his Formula One debut.
Bortoleto's influence extends beyond Brazil, offering an opportunity to engage the broader Latin American market. This region, often overlooked in global motorsport discussions, is home to a fervent fanbase. His presence could help Formula One make deeper inroads, broadening its reach and appeal in this passionate demographic.
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Joining a Team in Transition
Gabriel Bortoleto steps into Formula One at a pivotal time for Sauber, a team currently grappling with challenges while laying the groundwork for Audi’s full takeover in 2026. Sauber finished last in the 2024 Constructors' Championship, scoring just four points. For any rookie, this is a tough environment, but it also presents opportunities for rapid growth.
Midfield Team Challenges
Sauber’s current state is a mix of short-term struggles and long-term ambitions. The team is working to improve its performance on the track while preparing for Audi’s complete acquisition in 2026. This dual focus has created a challenging atmosphere, with insiders describing the transition as anything but smooth.
The team entered 2025 without a permanent team principal, relying on a dual-leadership structure. Jonathan Wheatley is set to take over as team principal in April, while Mattia Binotto oversees the Audi transition as COO and CTO.
"Since he [Nico Hulkenberg] signed, the CEO has changed. Andreas Seidl brought him in. They are without a team principal until April. From everything you hear it's not going particularly smoothly, in terms of the transition to Audi. I hope this is a year for Sauber, their last in F1, where they have a better year."
Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft highlights the instability Bortoleto faces, but this uncertainty also gives the young Brazilian a chance to influence the team’s direction rather than simply fitting into an established system.
Despite its world-class facilities in Hinwil, Switzerland, including a highly regarded wind tunnel, Sauber struggles to attract top talent due to Switzerland’s high cost of living and relative isolation. Audi has announced plans to establish a UK-based facility to address this issue.
"One of the problems that the Audi project has is the location. Hinwil, as spectacular as Switzerland is, is not a great place to attract staff to. Switzerland is expensive, and you're uprooting people. They are now announcing that they need a base in the UK to make better use of talent. I am surprised that didn't happen two years ago."
Even with these hurdles, Sauber’s transitional phase offers Bortoleto a unique opportunity to be part of critical decision-making processes. Stefano Sordo, the team’s performance director, has stressed the need to show a "positive trend" to Audi, making every driver’s input increasingly important.
At the same time, Bortoleto will have the advantage of working closely with experienced teammates who can guide him through this demanding phase of his career.
Learning from Experienced Teammates
The presence of Nico Hulkenberg is a key asset for Bortoleto. With 227 Grand Prix starts, Hulkenberg brings a wealth of technical knowledge and developmental experience, especially with Ferrari power units - used by Sauber - that could help both the team and its rookie driver adapt more effectively to the demands of Formula One.
Hulkenberg’s early impressions of Bortoleto have been encouraging. After their first sessions together, the veteran driver praised the rookie’s quick learning and adaptability:
"Very good. I think we get on really well – he's a really nice guy, a smart kid, fast as hell! He learns really quickly. He did his first race sim here at the test, so I look forward to working alongside him."
However, Hulkenberg is clear that their relationship is rooted in competition:
"I don't think that when you're team-mates that you're really a mentor to your team-mate, even if you're the older one and the more experienced one. But at the end of the day it's competition, even if you're in the same team and if you race for the team. I want to do a good job for [Sauber], but also for myself and my own career."
This competitive dynamic is likely to push Bortoleto to develop faster, as he gains access to Hulkenberg’s technical insights while learning how to maximize performance under resource constraints.
Pau Rivera, Bortoleto’s race engineer, has emphasized the importance of communication during this learning phase:
"Take it session by session. [Try] to learn as much as possible in testing of the team, the car, tyres, procedures, communication. I think that's very important, the communication – driver to team, team to driver. We are all on the same page. We understand each other to be able to go in the right direction and not go in the wrong direction."
Bortoleto’s timing couldn’t be better, as Sauber looks for fresh perspectives. Jonathan Wheatley even compared this transition to his own experience moving from Renault to Red Bull in 2006, emphasizing the blend of experienced leadership and adaptable talent needed for success.
Mattia Binotto believes the combination of Hulkenberg’s experience and Bortoleto’s fresh energy is perfect for this transitional period:
"Nico and Gabriel represent the ideal combination of experience and youth, positioning us strongly for the future."
This partnership not only gives Bortoleto access to technical expertise but also provides valuable lessons in team-building as Sauber evolves into Audi’s works Formula One team.
Conclusion: Bortoleto's Impact on Sauber and Brazilian Formula One
Gabriel Bortoleto's arrival in Formula One marks a turning point for Sauber and reignites Brazil's presence in motorsport's top tier. His rise from back-to-back Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles to an F1 seat comes at a critical juncture, with both his career and Sauber's future riding on pivotal moments that could define their paths for years.
Even in the face of early challenges, Bortoleto has consistently demonstrated a knack for outperforming seasoned rivals, as seen with his impressive P12 finish at the Spanish Grand Prix. For Sauber, his dedication offers much-needed consistency as the team navigates its evolution into Audi's factory outfit by 2026.
Beyond his on-track feats, Bortoleto's influence is spreading far and wide. His growing success is already rekindling passion for Formula One in Brazil, a country with one of the sport's most enthusiastic fan bases. This resurgence in interest is poised to boost Sauber's commercial prospects ahead of their Audi transformation. Moreover, his achievements could inspire a new wave of Brazilian motorsport enthusiasts and attract fresh investment into the racing world.
Bortoleto's ability to extract the maximum from limited resources highlights his readiness for the challenges ahead. With Audi's full support on the horizon, his current efforts are laying the foundation for Sauber's transformation into a competitive factory team.
"I have very clear the project ahead of me and that's what motivates me a lot."
This clarity of purpose signals that Bortoleto's impact on Sauber and the future of Brazilian Formula One is only just beginning.
FAQs
How does Gabriel Bortoleto’s signing fit into Sauber’s plans for Audi’s F1 entry?
Gabriel Bortoleto’s addition to Sauber underscores the team's commitment to developing emerging talent as they gear up for Audi's full-scale entry into Formula One in 2026. As the reigning Formula 2 champion, Bortoleto brings a wealth of promise, giving Sauber an opportunity to lay a solid groundwork and show progress ahead of Audi’s arrival.
This decision aligns with Sauber’s broader plan to enhance their competitiveness by building a strong driver lineup and delivering consistent results. Working alongside seasoned teammates like Nico Hülkenberg, Bortoleto is expected to contribute significantly to a seamless transition into the Audi era while reinforcing the team’s long-term goals.
What has fueled Gabriel Bortoleto’s impressive rise through Formula 3 and Formula 2?
Gabriel Bortoleto’s Journey to Formula 1
Gabriel Bortoleto’s rise in motorsport has been nothing short of impressive, driven by a mix of natural skill, sharp racing instincts, and steady performances. In 2023, he made waves by clinching the Formula 3 championship as a rookie. With two race wins and six podium finishes, he showcased not only his adaptability but also his ability to thrive under pressure.
Fast forward to 2024, and Bortoleto kept the momentum going by claiming the Formula 2 championship. His season included two victories and five podium appearances, a testament to his calculated racing style and the strong backing of his team. Now, with a contract to race for Sauber in the 2025 Formula 1 season, Bortoleto is set to carry Brazil’s hopes as one of its most promising young drivers.
What impact could Gabriel Bortoleto have on Brazil’s presence in Formula One and its fanbase?
Gabriel Bortoleto's upcoming debut in Formula One with Sauber marks an exciting moment for Brazil’s motorsport legacy. With an impressive track record that includes an F3 Championship title and standout performances in F2, Bortoleto is set to carry the torch for Brazilian racing excellence. His entry couldn’t come at a better time, aligning with the debut of the Audi works team and the introduction of new technical regulations - factors that could make his presence on the grid even more impactful.
Adding to his credentials are his ties to motorsport icons like Fernando Alonso and his time in McLaren’s Driver Development Program. These connections, coupled with his undeniable talent, position him as a driver who could not only perform at the top level but also reignite Brazil's passion for Formula One. His journey has the potential to draw in a younger, more energized fanbase, breathing fresh life into the sport’s following in the country.