Valtteri Bottas cautions Gabriel Bortoleto about a challenging rookie season but highlights Nico Hulkenberg’s experience as a valuable asset.
Valtteri Bottas offered advice to Gabriel Bortoleto, the Brazilian rookie who will succeed him at Sauber.
For the Finnish driver, without a seat for the coming season, it’s crucial to “not be too hard on yourself.”
Bortoleto, reigning Formula 2 champion, will have Nico Hulkenberg as a teammate, which Bottas considers an excellent reference.
“My advice to any new driver is always not to be too hard on yourself and to give yourself time,” said Bottas, who will spend the 2025 season as Mercedes F1’s reserve driver.
“There’s a lot to learn in this sport, but today’s drivers are so well-prepared and receive a lot of support.”
“I think he’ll do well, but I expect a tough season. The regulations won’t change next year, and the cars teams have now won’t change much.”
“So I don’t think it’ll be an easy season for any rookie, as the Sauber was tricky to drive, but I think with Nico alongside, he can learn. Nico has plenty of experience, but yes, I expect a tough season.”
Bottas also named a Finnish talent he believes will be the next driver from his country to reach F1: Ferrari Driver Academy’s Tuukka Taponen.
“It’s been a good year for Finnish drivers. I hope someone other than me will join F1 soon.”
“The one currently closest is Tuukka in F4 – he’ll be in F3 next year [with ART Grand Prix].”
“It’ll be a key season for him to prove what he can do. But he’s on a good path.”
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Bortoleto to Face Sauber Challenge, Says Bottas Bortoleto to Face Sauber Challenge, Says Bottas
