After the announcement formalizing the departure of Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou, Sauber confirmed that Gabriel Bortoleto would join its ranks from the 2025 season. The leader of the F2 standings was until now a young McLaren driver, but the latter released to join the Audi F1 project.
If no contractual details have been made, it is clearly mentioned that the Brazilian will defend the colors of Sauber and the Audi project, which implies that like Nico Hülkenberg, he will be there for at least two seasons.
“This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not all sports” Bortoleto said. “Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honor.”
“Beyond just being a member, I intend to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity the team and lucky to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico.”
“Both programs have a proven track record of developing young talent, and I am confident that together we will write our own success story.”
Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG, welcomed this recruitment and the emergence of new talents within the premier category: “Led by Mattia, Audi’s Formula 1 project is making great strides in many areas. The signing of the second driver is another important milestone.”
“We are currently witnessing a generational change in Formula 1, with young drivers making their mark immediately. By signing Gabriel Bortoleto, we have secured the services of one of these great talents. His signing underlines the long-term strategy term and Audi’s commitment to Formula 1.”
Sauber Motorsport Operations Director Mattia Binotto explained why the team turned to Bortoleto: “Gabriel has already demonstrated in the junior categories that he has what it takes to become a winning driver. We are very pleased that he will become a member of the Sauber and Audi team.”
“Together with Gabriel, we are on the path to success and will evolve into a unified force to shape a new era for Audi in motorsport. Nico and Gabriel represent the ideal combination of experience and youth, which gives us puts us in a good position for the future.”
