Gabriel Bortoleto: Navigating His Rookie Season in Formula 1 with Sauber

The world of Formula 1 can be a challenging arena for any rookie driver, and Gabriel Bortoleto’s inaugural season is no exception. While he has yet to score points, what sets him apart from other newcomers is the supportive environment created by the Sauber team. Unlike many teams that might exert pressure for immediate results, Sauber is fostering an atmosphere conducive to development and growth.

A Unique Rookie Experience

Bortoleto’s experience as a first-year driver stands in stark contrast to that of other rookies like Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto, who have also struggled to make a mark in the championship. While Doohan and Colapinto have participated in fewer races, Bortoleto has been actively racing alongside seasoned driver Nico Hülkenberg, who has already accumulated twenty points this season. The Brazilian acknowledges the impressive performance of his teammate, stating, “He is extracting more from the car than should be possible. He is an excellent driver. I truly admire what he is doing; it’s remarkable,” he said after the Canadian Grand Prix.

Sauber’s Supportive Approach

Sauber’s strategy differs from that of many competitors who may consider driver changes after modest results. Instead, the Swiss team is in a phase of reconstruction, preparing to become Audi’s official team starting in 2026. The current priority is to resolve the car’s issues and allow their drivers to grow alongside it.

The C45 model has faced challenges since the start of the 2025 season, particularly in traffic situations where it struggles with aerodynamic pressure loss and turbulence, making overtaking difficult. Bortoleto highlighted these issues during the Chinese Grand Prix. In response, Sauber introduced a substantial update package in Spain, featuring a new floor, a revised front wing, and alterations to the rear bodywork, all aimed at improving the car’s predictability and stability.

Iñaki Rueda, the team’s sporting director, remarked, “When you add downforce, it’s common for the car to become more challenging to handle in adverse conditions. This has been one of the main concerns observed since the initial tests, and we hope this update addresses that.”

Recent Races and Learning Curves

Despite the updates, it has been Hülkenberg who has successfully translated these enhancements into tangible results during recent races. However, Sauber recognizes that Sunday performances are where Bortoleto needs to focus on improvement—a natural progression for any rookie driver. Instances such as his spin in the rain during the Australian Grand Prix, a problematic start in Japan, and losing position to Fernando Alonso after a safety car in Spain illustrate the learning curve he faces.

This acknowledgment of Bortoleto’s efforts is crucial for his development. Between the Japanese and Bahrain Grands Prix, he visited the team’s headquarters for a debriefing with Mattia Binotto, the director of Sauber. Binotto has shown faith in Bortoleto’s potential, opting for him over more established names like Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.

Speed on Saturdays

On Saturdays, Bortoleto has demonstrated his speed by occasionally outpacing Hülkenberg in qualifying sessions. The challenge lies in converting those strong grid positions into race results. Bortoleto has noted that achieving this transformation necessitates the strategic insight that comes from experience.

“He (Hülkenberg) views the race differently. I’m not yet able to see it that way. But I’m learning from him, and I hope to follow in his footsteps to start scoring points for the team,” Bortoleto concluded.

Sauber’s Driving Philosophy

The current philosophy at Sauber is clear: consistent effort, patience, and support for their drivers. In this learning phase, Bortoleto is receiving the necessary backing to gradually establish himself within the competitive world of Formula 1.

The Importance of Team Dynamics

Team dynamics play an essential role in the growth of a rookie driver. Bortoleto’s relationship with Hülkenberg has proven invaluable as he navigates the complexities of F1 racing. Hülkenberg’s wealth of experience allows him to provide insights that can help Bortoleto make quicker progress in adapting to the demands of the sport. The supportive atmosphere at Sauber encourages open communication, enabling Bortoleto to ask questions and seek advice without hesitation.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Bortoleto faces challenges typical of a rookie season, including adapting to the car’s handling and developing racecraft, these obstacles also present opportunities for learning and growth. Each race offers new lessons, and the experiences, both good and bad, contribute to his development as a driver.

The ability to reflect on mistakes and successes is crucial for Bortoleto as he strives to improve. The Sauber team is aware that the transition from a promising rookie to a point-scoring driver takes time, and they are committed to providing the support he needs during this critical phase of his career.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, Bortoleto is focused on harnessing the knowledge gained from each race to enhance his performance. As the season progresses, he aims to apply the lessons learned and improve his race-day strategies, ultimately working towards his first points finish. With Sauber’s backing and his growing experience, the path to success in Formula 1 may soon be within reach.

Conclusion

Gabriel Bortoleto’s journey in his rookie season of Formula 1, while challenging, is marked by the support and development provided by the Sauber team. As he learns from his experiences alongside a seasoned teammate like Hülkenberg, Bortoleto is poised to grow and eventually make a significant impact in the championship. With patience and consistent effort, he has the potential to turn his promising performances into results that will solidify his place in the sport.