In the latest installment of our ongoing series exploring the rise of Formula 1’s newest talents, we turn our attention to the promising career of Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto. Born and raised in Sao Paulo, this 20-year-old sensation has already left an indelible mark on the junior motorsport scene with his impressive track record.
Similar to the likes of Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Oscar Piastri, Bortoleto has swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of motorsport by clinching consecutive Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships in his debut attempts. His journey to the top was paved with success in Italian Formula 4 and the Formula Regional European championship after relocating to Italy at the tender age of 13 under the guidance of his coach, Francesco di Mauro.
Bortoleto’s family background boasts considerable wealth, with his father, Lincoln Oliveira, having amassed a fortune in Brazil’s telecommunications industry during the 1990s. This affluent upbringing, coupled with close ties to former F1 driver Felipe Nasr, has undoubtedly shaped Bortoleto’s path to stardom. Notably, he has been under the tutelage of Fernando Alonso’s A14 management company since 2023, a partnership that has been instrumental in his meteoric rise.
Under the banner of A14, Bortoleto secured a seat with the Trident team, where he clinched the F3 title in 2023 with remarkable performances. His prowess on the track was further solidified in 2024 when he claimed the F2 championship with the Invicta squad, showcasing his ability to consistently score points while his competitors faltered.
As his star continued to rise, Bortoleto caught the attention of McLaren, who graciously allowed him to transition to Sauber as the 2024 season drew to a close. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella commended Bortoleto’s humility and work ethic, underscoring the young driver’s dedication to his craft.
Embracing the spotlight with grace and humor, Bortoleto expressed his authentic self during a recent F175 Live event in London, emphasizing his commitment to hard work and unwavering determination. His camaraderie with Sauber teammate Nico Hulkenberg has already shown promising signs on and off the track, setting the stage for a dynamic partnership in the upcoming season.
Despite the challenges posed by limited testing opportunities and heightened expectations from his homeland, Bortoleto remains unfazed as he embarks on his F1 journey. With a nation of motorsport enthusiasts rallying behind him, the young Brazilian is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport, drawing parallels to the iconic legacy of Ayrton Senna.
As the anticipation continues to build for Bortoleto’s maiden season in Formula 1, all eyes are on this rising star as he navigates the complexities of the sport with poise, determination, and an unwavering spirit. With each lap he completes and each race he conquers, Gabriel Bortoleto is shaping up to be a driving force in the world of motorsport, embodying the essence of a true champion in the making.
