In the ever-competitive world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen team-mate qualities continue to draw attention as drivers and teams evaluate what makes a strong partnership. Despite his intense racing style and formidable reputation, Verstappen’s ability to unite and elevate a team distinguishes him as an exceptional team-mate, according to fellow F1 driver Gabriel Bortoleto.
The Value Verstappen Brings to Any Team
Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising talent who debuted with the Sauber outfit last year and now drives for Audi, has spoken about the positive influence Verstappen can have within a racing squad. He highlights that Verstappen possesses a rare ability to foster team spirit, turning groups into cohesive units working toward shared goals.
Bortoleto recognizes that while Verstappen is often perceived as a difficult competitor for anyone to partner with, owing to his dominant performance and high standards, there is a side to Verstappen that greatly benefits those around him. Over the course of his career, Verstappen’s impact has often extended beyond his own results, trickling down to improved team collaboration and morale.
What It Means to Be Verstappen’s Team-Mate
Those who have worked closely with Verstappen acknowledge both the challenges and rewards of being on the same side of the garage. Former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez openly discussed the paradox of sharing a team with Verstappen, stating,
Image of: Max Verstappen
“being Max’s team-mate is the best and the worst job in F1, by far”
– Sergio Perez, ex-Red Bull driver.
This candid admission points to the demanding standards Verstappen sets, but also the privilege of competing alongside one of the sport’s elite talents. Bortoleto himself expressed optimism about the possibility of partnering with Verstappen in the future, remarking,
“Maybe Max will come to Audi someday, who knows,”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi F1 driver, as shared via Speedweek.
Building Champions Out of Teams
Verstappen’s journey with Red Bull further demonstrates his transformative influence. Arriving from Toro Rosso after just a single full season, Verstappen made an immediate statement by triumphing on his debut with Red Bull in Spain in 2016. The Dutchman’s relentless drive did not just win races; it helped his team develop into perennial title contenders.
A turning point came in 2021, when Verstappen secured his first Formula 1 world championship, ending Red Bull’s long wait since Sebastian Vettel’s last title in 2013. Subsequently, Verstappen dominated the sport by capturing four consecutive world titles from 2021 to 2024, narrowly missing a fifth by only two points in equipment considered less competitive than rivals.
Bortoleto’s Perspective as a Team-Mate
Bortoleto’s own admiration for Verstappen stems from their friendship and working relationship. He has openly shared,
“We work very well together as friends. He helps me a lot. That’s why I also believe he can be a very good team-mate.”
Bortoleto elaborated on Verstappen’s value, noting his unique skill in bringing everyone together and driving collective performance:
“Because when he joins a team, he manages to unite everyone. He didn’t win four world championship titles by chance.”
Bortoleto also emphasized that Verstappen played a crucial role in turning Red Bull from a team without recent championships into one that consistently achieves victories and fights for top honors. His comments highlight the positive prospects of teaming up with Verstappen, while also reaffirming his commitment to the current Audi project:
“Of course, only if he joins Audi, because I’m definitely happy with my team and the project we have here.”
– Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi F1 driver.
Looking Ahead: Verstappen’s Lasting Impact
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the qualities that define a great team-mate become ever more critical. Verstappen’s proven ability to motivate those around him, foster unity, and elevate the performance of a team sets a benchmark for others on the grid. The story of Gabriel Bortoleto’s debut season, where he quietly impressed with 19 points and a best finish of sixth at the Hungarian Grand Prix, underscores the importance of supportive and effective partnerships within teams.
With new talents rising and established stars continually shaping the championship battles, the example set by Max Verstappen’s team-mate qualities may influence the next generation of drivers and the future direction of Formula 1 teams.
