F1 rookie Gabriel Bortoleto believes Sauber’s updates boost his chances to score maiden Formula 1 points at the Canadian Grand Prix.
Gabriel Bortoleto confirmed that the updates introduced by Sauber F1 in Spain have proven effective, and he now hopes to validate the performance of these new parts on other tracks. In Canada, he believes he can do better and close in on the top 10.
“It was a step forward. We saw that the car had improved, and we will see what we can achieve this weekend. Each track is different, so we’ll try to maximise everything, the field is very tight and every thousandth counts. That could put us in a good position in qualifying and the race, and we’ll try to do our best,” said Bortoleto.
“The car is much more predictable, we can follow others more easily, and we have made progress in that sense. Congratulations to the team for this because it’s not easy to bring an upgrade that works as this one has. But it’s only one circuit and we have to keep working to get the most out of this package and be closer to the points.”
Asked about the possibility for both Nico Hülkenberg and himself to score points in Montreal, the Brazilian is confident it’s within reach and hopes to finally open his career tally: “It’s hard to say, but I would say yes. It’s always very tight in the midfield.”
“And I think with a better car, which we now have, we will be fighting for different things. But we know there are four teams that are supposed to be there, two places left for points, and we need to do everything perfectly to get them. And I hope I can score my first points!”
Media Obligations Are Heavy in F1
As he reflects on the start of his season, Bortoleto is satisfied with his performance level but admits that another area has been more challenging: “Honestly, I think everything has gone well so far. I’ve been able to adapt to the new circuits.”
“I think I have a very strong teammate, so that’s also a good reference to discover new tracks and learn new things. But I don’t think new circuits are the biggest challenge for rookies.”
“I believe there are other things that are a bit more complicated in a rookie season, like dealing with the media. In F2, none of that exists. Basically, you arrive at the circuit on Thursday, you talk to your engineers, you have free time, you only focus on the race, and that’s it.”
“In F1, you have so many more commitments to honour, for sponsors, for the media. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. It just takes up more time than in other series. I started racing at the age of six, and for nearly 15 years, I’ve never experienced anything like this.”
“In the few months I’ve been racing in Formula 1, you have to get used to all the media duties and the time allocation for yourself and sponsors, while still delivering your best on track. I would say that’s the most important topic for rookies.”
