Gabriel Bortoleto, at 20, steps into F1 with Sauber for the 2025 season, following successful junior championships in F3 and F2. Originating from Sao Paulo, he has connections to Brazil’s racing scene and aims to inspire future drivers while facing challenges in a competitive environment. His management by Fernando Alonso’s A14 adds to his promising trajectory in Formula 1.
In the first installment of a mini-series, Motorsport.com features Gabriel Bortoleto, the new Sauber driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season. At just 20 years old, Bortoleto hails from Sao Paulo and has swiftly climbed the junior motorsport ranks, winning both Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships on his first attempts, showcasing his talent alongside F1 stars like Charles Leclerc and George Russell.
Before his success in higher categories, Bortoleto competed in the Italian Formula 4 and Formula Regional European Championship after moving to Italy at age 13. His family, rooted in Brazil’s telecommunications industry, has close connections with racing, having supported Felipe Nasr in his journey to F1. Additionally, Bortoleto has been managed by Fernando Alonso’s A14 company since 2023, which aided his rise to prominence.
His achievements in F3 with the Trident team included winning the title with impressive stats: two wins and one pole position. In 2024, he continued his success in F2, also scoring two wins and two pole positions, while demonstrating consistent scoring amidst fierce competition. However, Bortoleto found himself in need of a new opportunity when McLaren released him to Sauber, since McLaren had no openings until at least 2026.
McLaren’s team boss, Andrea Stella, praised Bortoleto, describing him as “humble” and unassuming, particularly during a challenging start to the F2 season. In contrast, Alonso has expressed confidence in Bortoleto’s talent, stating, “the best is Gabriel,” emphasizing his remarkable performance on the track against other rookies.
Bortoleto aims to maintain authenticity in front of fans, stating, “I try to be myself as much as I can” during public appearances. He credits his hard work and dedication to achieving his racing dreams, whether through simulator practice or collaborating with engineers. His rookie relationship with teammate Nico Hulkenberg has begun positively, with Hulkenberg noting Bortoleto’s quick learning and strong pace during testing.
As Bortoleto enters F1, he carries the weight of Brazil’s racing heritage, drawing comparisons to the late Ayrton Senna. While Sauber may face challenges in performance, the rookie’s potential to make significant strides against a talented teammate provides an exciting narrative for the 2025 season, with hopes he will inspire the next generation of Brazilian drivers.
Overall, Bortoleto’s arrival in F1 is not just about personal achievement, but also about connecting with a nation that cherishes motorsport, echoing Senna’s legacy on the global F1 stage.
Gabriel Bortoleto joins F1 as Sauber’s new rookie driver for the 2025 season, boasting impressive credentials from his junior racing career. Supported by a strong management team, he seeks to follow in the footsteps of Brazil’s racing greats while remaining authentic to himself. Despite Sauber’s challenges, Bortoleto’s talent and potential promise to elevate both his career and Brazilian motorsport aspirations as he embarks on this new journey.
Original Source: www.motorsport.com
