After several years without a Brazilian driver in Formula 1, the presence of Gabriel Bortoleto at the Brazilian Grand Prix has reignited hopes among local fans. The 21-year-old rookie made his debut amid cheers, mascots, and songs dedicated to his performance.
Bortoleto’s Current Standing and Challenges
As of the recent race, Bortoleto sat 19th in the drivers’ standings with 19 points. His Sauber team currently limits his chances for a podium finish, but his driving performance has generated optimism for his future. In 2026, Audi will fully take over the Sauber team, with Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg as the drivers.
Early Career Achievements
- Started karting at age seven.
- Won multiple titles in Brazil from 2011 to 2019.
- Competed in F4 in Italy in 2020, achieving one victory and five podiums.
- Joined Formula Regional with Alpine in 2021, finishing sixth overall.
- Mentored by two-time world champion Fernando Alonso.
- Dominated the F3 season in 2023 and followed it up with success in F2 in 2024 after joining McLaren’s development program.
Encouragement from Veterans
Former Brazilian driver Felipe Massa expressed confidence in Bortoleto’s potential. “He has the talent to become a top F1 driver. He could win races and titles,” explained Massa. However, he emphasized the importance of patience and the external factors in play, such as the team’s performance and resources.
Recent Incident Raises Concerns
Bortoleto faced challenges during the sprint race, where he experienced a significant crash while trying to overtake Alexander Albon. This incident has raised questions about his ability to handle pressure.
Claudio Herz, a dedicated 74-year-old fan, shared his concerns about the crash, highlighting the desire for Bortoleto to succeed in front of his supporters. He urged fans to give the rookie the time to grow into his role.
Bortoleto’s Perspective
Despite concerns, Bortoleto remains focused. He stated he does not feel excessive pressure, approaching the Brazilian Grand Prix as a typical race. He acknowledged the mistake that led to his crash but affirmed his eagerness to learn from experiences at Interlagos.
“I still have lessons to learn. One day, when I have a competitive car, I won’t be able to afford such errors,” he remarked, drawing a parallel to Max Verstappen’s early days in the sport.
Fans’ Support for the Future
As Bortoleto continues his journey in Formula 1, he carries the hopes of Brazilian fans who are eager to support their new talent. With the backing of experienced figures in the sport and a commitment to improvement, Bortoleto may indeed revive Brazil’s aspirations for a Formula 1 victory.
