Gabriel Bortoleto's meteoric rise through the motorsport ranks has positioned him as Brazil's next great hope in Formula 1. After winning the 2024 Formula 2 championship, the 20-year-old joins an elite group of drivers— Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Oscar Piastri—all of whom achieved back-to-back rookie championships in Formula 3 and Formula 2. With a seat for the 2025 race secured at Stake Sauber, Bortoleto is ready to follow in their footsteps and bring pride to his home country.
Inspired by the Greats
Bortoleto draws inspiration from Leclerc, Russell and Piastri, all of whom turned their junior success into Formula 1 victories. Now he aims to replicate their trajectory.
“They are all race winners in F1, so for me it is a privilege to be surrounded by these names,” Bortoleto said. “They dominated championships as rookies, surprised F1 teams, and got their seats in F1, then grew up and started winning races. That’s obviously one of my goals: to represent my country in F1, to win races, and hopefully championships.”
Secure a Place on the Grid
Bortoleto's rapid rise has not gone unnoticed. Audi, preparing for its full-time entry into F1 in 2026, signed the young Brazilian as part of its long-term vision. However, his immediate future lies at Stake Sauber, where he will race in 2025. The appointment marks a significant moment for Brazilian motorsport, bringing a full-time Brazilian driver back to the F1 grid for the first time since last season. Felipe Massa in 2017.
“It's very special to be the one representing Brazil in Formula 1 again,” Bortoleto said. “We have come a long way to get here. For me, giving my countrymen something to celebrate, being a part of their Sunday mornings as they watch me race around the world, is an incredible feeling.”
Carrying the heritage of Brazil
Brazil has a rich history in Formula 1, with legends like Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet and Emerson Fittipaldi casting long shadows. Bortoleto understands the weight of this legacy and sees himself as a beacon of hope for a country seeking a revival in motorsport.
“It is very expensive for Brazil to train drivers capable of racing in Formula 3, Formula 2, and eventually Formula 1,” he explained. “We haven't been in a great moment as a country recently, but if I can bring a little joy to my people by representing them on the world stage, that's an honor.”
Looking to the future
With his first Formula 1 season approaching, Bortoleto's goals are clear: adapt quickly, prove his worth and follow the path set by Leclerc, Russell and Piastri. His success in the junior categories and the confidence placed in him by Audi and Stake Sauber suggest he has the tools to succeed.
As Brazil tunes in during race weekends, the young driver knows he's not just racing for himself, but for a nation longing for the glory days of its F1 legacy.
