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Introducing Gabriel Bortoleto: Sauber’s Rising Star
In a new mini-series, Autosport explores the promising careers of the six rookie drivers entering Formula 1 in 2025. Today, we shine a spotlight on Gabriel Bortoleto, the new driver for Sauber.
Aged 20 and hailing from São Paulo, Bortoleto has cultivated an impressive track record in junior motorsports. Similar to previous F1 sensations such as Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Oscar Piastri, he has made his mark by clinching consecutive championships in both Formula 3 and Formula 2 on his first attempts.
His motorsport journey began in Italy, where he moved at the age of 13 to train under coach Francesco di Mauro. Prior to his championship successes, Bortoleto demonstrated his talent in the Italian Formula 4 and the Formula Regional European Championship.
Financially supported by his affluent family—his father, Lincoln Oliveira, amassed wealth in Brazil’s telecommunications sector during the 1990s—Bortoleto’s connections in the racing world extend beyond personal wealth. His family had ties with Felipe Nasr, another Brazilian driver who debuted in F1 with Sauber in 2015.
Furthermore, since 2023, Bortoleto has been under the management of A14, the company owned by two-time world champion Fernando Alonso. A14 played a crucial role in securing his spot with the Trident team, where Bortoleto excelled in F3, achieving two wins and a pole position.
His successful trajectory continued in 2024 when he claimed the F2 championship with Invicta, showcasing not just speed but also a consistent ability to garner points during challenging phases of the season. While under contract with McLaren, which released him from his junior driver status, Bortoleto found an opportunity with Sauber—now transitioning to an Audi team at the end of 2024. McLaren’s commitment to their current lineup meant Bortoleto had limited avenues to advance within their ranks until 2026.
Andrea Stella, McLaren’s team principal, praised Bortoleto during the past season, lauding his humility and resilience despite facing initial challenges adapting to a new car specification in F2. In a more exuberant endorsement, Alonso proclaimed Bortoleto the standout talent among the upcoming rookie class during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
When asked how he would present himself to F1 fans during the F175 Live event in London, Bortoleto expressed his intent to remain authentic. “I try to be myself,” he stated. “You can say I try to be funny,” a sentiment echoed by his new teammate Nico Hulkenberg, who noted Bortoleto’s engaging personality.
Bortoleto’s work ethic has been evident; he dedicated countless hours to simulator training and collaborating with engineers to pursue his championship aspirations in F3 and F2. As he steps into F1, he anticipates adopting a similar approach to succeed at this elite level.
Hulkenberg remarked on Bortoleto’s promising skills during the pre-season test in Bahrain, where he demonstrated remarkable speed and adaptability. Meanwhile, Bortoleto’s candid feedback regarding the 2025 Testing of Previous Cars rules reflects his maturity and understanding of the challenges that lie ahead as a rookie.
With Brazil’s motorsport community rallying behind him, Bortoleto recognizes the high expectations set by the recent impressive performances of fellow drivers, particularly Argentina’s Franco Colapinto. He enters a Sauber team likely facing struggles this season, which might afford him some leeway to adjust without excessive media scrutiny. However, excelling alongside a respected veteran like Hulkenberg could pave the way for a lasting career in Formula 1.
As a wealthy young talent, Bortoleto aims to inspire his nation with both his racing prowess and engaging personality. Just like the legendary Ayrton Senna, his journey in F1 is off to an undeniably strong start.
Source
www.autosport.com