Bortoleto Clinches 2025 Audi F1 Seat with Sauber

Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto reflects on joining Audi F1’s Sauber team after an impressive turnaround in his F2 season.

Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto has shared insights into his remarkable signing with Audi F1’s Sauber team, a feat achieved despite a rocky start to his Formula 2 season. Known for his resilience, the reigning Formula 3 champion managed to impress Mattia Binotto, a pivotal decision-maker in Audi’s F1 ambitions.

Reflecting on his journey, Bortoleto admitted he hadn’t initially set his sights on a Formula 1 seat as early as 2025. “This season didn’t start particularly well,” he acknowledged during his first press conference following the announcement of his F1 debut with Stake F1. “There were no discussions about next year or F1, and we even considered repeating another year in F2 with my management team. But at some point, the season turned around.”

The driver described a pivotal shift as he began accumulating wins and podiums, sparking interest from Audi F1. “I can’t recall exactly when the conversations began, but that’s when F1 started to come into the picture.”

Initial talks indicated a potential entry in 2026, allowing Valtteri Bottas a final season, but recent weeks saw a pivot toward an earlier debut. The Swiss team recognized the strategic benefits of investing in young talent over experience. “Mattia was uncertain about choosing between an experienced driver and a young one, but the plan was always to work together. It was just a matter of whether it would be for 2025 or 2026.”

Bortoleto remained unfazed by the timeline. “I felt quite comfortable either way. It wouldn’t have changed my life significantly right now, as I knew things would fall into place in due time.”

For now, Bortoleto is focused on Formula 2, where he leads the championship. “It’s nice to put all the speculation to rest and concentrate on F2,” he noted. “Brazil has always supported me, especially this season. After my strong showing in F3 and my progress in F2, fans started expecting a Formula 1 seat as well.”

Rather than detracting from his performance, the pressure has fueled his ambition. “It’s actually given me more energy,” he shared. “Having Brazilian fans behind me is incredible, and I just want to perform at my best in F1 while enjoying every moment.”

Bortoleto’s debut places him alongside two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, who is also part of his management team. “We joke about it, honestly,” he said with a smile. “He started racing in F1 before I was born, and now we’ll be on the grid together. It’s surreal. Fernando has been an invaluable mentor, guiding me and supporting my journey. I look forward to sharing the track with him.”

Despite the current challenges Sauber faces, Bortoleto remains optimistic about the future. “I’m still getting to know everyone at Sauber, but I’m encouraged by the fresh faces and high expectations. Right now, we’re not where we want to be, but I’m confident we’ll make strides forward. Come 2026, with Audi’s full backing, I believe we’ll be ready to compete at the top.”