Gabriel Bortoleto has shared that key career guidance from Max Verstappen was central to his ascent in single-seater racing, offering vital support as he transitioned from a 2024 Formula 3 championship to preparations for Formula 2 and an anticipated debut with Sauber in 2025. This revelation about Gabriel Bortoleto F1 career guidance highlights how Verstappen’s mentorship played a decisive role during a crucial period of uncertainty for the young Brazilian.
Mclaren Junior’s Next Steps and the F1 Contract Dilemma
After a victorious 2024 season in Formula 3, Bortoleto joined the prestigious McLaren junior program, signaling his ambitions for a place on the Formula 1 grid. Yet, the presence of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in long-term McLaren deals created a career bottleneck, leaving Bortoleto at a professional crossroads regarding his future. Undeterred, he secured an agreement to race for Sauber beginning in 2025, a move coinciding with his successful stint in Formula 2.
The Verstappen Connection: Insight, Support, and Opportunity
In reflecting on his journey, Bortoleto underscored the depth of his relationship with Max Verstappen, crediting the multiple world champion with providing both personal encouragement and practical advice.
“It’s great, it’s not news that I have a very good relationship with him. Max has always supported me a lot in the junior series as well, growing up.”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver. Rather than seeking favors, Bortoleto relied on Verstappen’s experienced counsel to navigate choices and opportunities along the path to F1.
“I never asked him to do anything for me. I asked a lot of advice for my future and decisions I wanted to take, where to go, opportunities I had.”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver.
Red Bull’s Watchful Eye and Audi’s Interest Sparked by Verstappen’s Recommendation
The collaboration went beyond informal advice; during a podcast appearance, Verstappen admitted to recommending Bortoleto’s talent to Red Bull management, a frank revelation that surprised the Brazilian.
“I knew he talked with Red Bull, but I didn’t know when he did. When he mentioned it in the podcast, I was a bit like, ‘oh okay that’s nice, from him back in the time to do that,’”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver. Furthermore, Bortoleto shared that Verstappen’s influence extended to discussions with Jonathan Wheatley, now Audi team principal, reinforcing the perception of Bortoleto’s F1 potential.
“Even Jonathan Wheatley, Audi team principal, said that many times before they signed me here. Max told him, ‘keep an eye on this guy; he can be very good in F1.’ I don’t want to say too much; let him tell you this. But definitely, that’s very nice from him to do that,”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver.
Building on Legendary Endorsement as Sauber Prepares for Audi Era
With Bortoleto set to remain with Sauber as the team transitions to Audi, his aspirations have new momentum thanks to backing from some of the sport’s most influential figures. As the 2025 season approaches, the motorsport world is keenly observing whether Bortoleto can transform Verstappen’s endorsement and career guidance into a long-term place among Formula 1’s elite. This crucial support from a champion may well be the springboard propelling Gabriel Bortoleto toward racing’s highest honors.
