F1 news: Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto attracting attention from top F1 teams
Gabriel Bortoleto’s impressive start to life in Formula 1 has not gone unnoticed.
The 21-year-old Brazilian is quickly earning praise across the paddock after showing strong pace and maturity in his rookie season with Sauber.
A rookie proving himself on the big stage
After winning both the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles in back-to-back years, Bortoleto arrived in F1 with high expectations.
Many young drivers struggle to adapt to the sport’s top level, but he has already proven that he belongs on the grid.
His performances against team-mate Nico Hulkenberg have shown how much potential he has, with clean racing and consistent results standing out.
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Which top F1 team is eyeing the young Brazilian?
Reports suggest that Ferrari have added Bortoleto to their list of future targets. The team already have Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton under contract, but with new regulations coming in 2026, plans for 2027 and beyond are already being discussed.
Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone also backed the idea, saying, “Bortoleto’s good performances in a midfield team like Sauber should really wake Ferrari up now. The Italians’ next driver question has to be resolved with the Brazilian.”
Bortoleto’s situation at Sauber also plays a part. The team is set to become Audi in 2026, meaning there is a lot of focus on building for the future.
That gives Bortoleto time to learn and grow, while also giving the team a chance to shape him into a key driver for the new era.
If his form continues, Bortoleto could soon find himself in the middle of a battle between F1’s biggest teams.
For now, he remains focused on finishing the season strongly - but it’s clear that one of the sport’s brightest young stars is already turning heads.
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