Gabriel Bortoleto took his first F1 test at the Red Bull Ring, signalling his strong candidacy for the Audi seat.
Gabriel Bortoleto, a designated contender to complete the Audi / Stake F1 team lineup in 2025, made his Formula 1 debut last week behind closed doors.
“No decision has been made yet,” said team boss Mattia Binotto at Monza, “but it shouldn’t take too long.”
The Italian admitted that Audi was undecided between recruiting a young driver like Bortoleto or Théo Pourchaire, or sticking with experience, such as with current incumbent Valtteri Bottas.
“We are working on a long-term project but now need to decide what the best short-term choice is.”
If Audi targets Bortoleto, a 19-year-old Brazilian who stands out in Formula 2 this year, it’s because Liam Lawson is expected to finally be promoted to one of the Red Bull-owned F1 seats, likely at RB F1.
But as with Lawson, McLaren would need to agree to release its young driver. He was indeed recruited by McLaren’s young driver program late last year.
He had his first F1 test in a 2022 McLaren at the Red Bull Ring last week (video below).
“I saw this as something that could happen at any time because they have been preparing me since the end of last year to perform exactly this kind of role for them,” commented Bortoleto.
“From the feedback I received from the team, they were very pleased with the insights I reported on the car, my behavior on track, and the performance improvements we had throughout the day.”
Bortoleto’s career is managed by Fernando Alonso’s management company, “which does not deny contact with Audi.”
Indeed, Binotto openly mentioned Bortoleto’s name during a meeting with journalists at Monza, and the former Ferrari boss even discussed with the Brazilian on the starting grid of one of the Formula 2 races.
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Audi Considers Bortoleto for 2025 Amid F1 Test Audi Considers Bortoleto for 2025 Amid F1 Test
