Max Verstappen already has an existing relationship with F1’s newest recruit, Gabriel Bortoleto. The 20-year-old has been signed as Sauber’s second driver for the 2025 campaign, partnering Nico Hulkenberg at the Hinwil-based outfit.
Bortoleto arrives in F1 with plenty of hype. The Brazilian is the reigning Formula Three champion and with two rounds remaining, is on track to complete the double with the Formula Two title in his rookie campaign.
This pedigree, combined with help from Fernando Alonso’s management agency and McLaren, with whom he was a junior driver, tempted Sauber and Mattia Binotto to bring Bortoleto in for the 2025 campaign, ahead of incumbent duo Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.
While there will be plenty of new faces for Bortoleto to learn when he steps into the F1 paddock, he can at least fall back on his existing relationship with some current drivers, including reigning world champion Max Verstappen.
Earlier this year, Verstappen explained: “I actually speak to Gabi and to Felipe [Drugovich, Aston Martin reserve driver] quite a bit. I think they’re great drivers. I told Gabi ‘You have to keep pushing, try and win the F2 championship’. He’s a very nice kid. If he just keeps working and keeps being himself, then he has a good opportunity.
Bortoleto now has the opportunity that Verstappen believes he deserves and will take on an experienced team-mate in Hulkenberg when he makes the step up. With no FP1 sessions under his belt thus far, it will be a steep learning curve.
“This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports,” Bortoleto said after his move was announced. “Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honour.
“Beyond simply being a member, I aim to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity given to me by the team and for the chance to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico.
“Both programs have a proven track record of nurturing young talent, and I am confident that together, we will write our own success story.”
Bortoleto now becomes part of an unusually full rookie field for 2025. Kimi Antonelli, Jack Doohan and Oliver Bearman are all confirmed for next season, while Liam Lawson and potentially even Franco Colapinto could start their first full campaigns.
