For many teams, next year will be a transitional phase before new regulations arrive. This is especially true for Sauber, who will become Audi F1 team and enter as an engine manufacturer in 2026. Because of this, Gabriel Bortoleto represents more than a short-term signing, but an investment for the future.
Bortoleto secures long-term Sauber deal
Even before the start of this year, Sauber’s driver line-up has been a huge question mark.
A little over twelve months ago, the Swiss team were considering Felipe Drugovich as a candidate to replace Zhou Guanyu.
Despite ultimately retaining Zhou for 2024, Drugovich being on Sauber’s shortlist is evidence of their driver uncertainties.
Audi’s takeover of the team added another element to the equation – likely influencing the team’s acquisition of Nico Hulkenberg in April.
For a team currently rock bottom in the standings, now could be the best time to sign a young driver.
Gabriel Bortoleto will have the benefit of adapting to F1 in a relatively low-pressure environment – assuming that Sauber’s 2025 car is anything similar to their current package.
Binotto breaks down Bortoleto decision
In the aftermath of Sauber’s announcement, Mattia Binotto explained why signing Bortoleto was a no-brainer.
“I followed Gabriel’s career, certainly even more intensively in the last weeks and months.
“I saw him racing and racing so well, being impressed by the speed, the potential.
“His capacity to first develop and improve [is impressive].
“And if I look around, I think [Bortoleto] is one of the most talented and high-potential drivers we’ve got as rookies.
“For Audi, that was a no-brainer – go for it.
“That would have been our choice. The second and last question we were asking ourselves was should it be straight in 2025 or should we give him some time first to develop – and then maybe postpone to 2026.
“But finally, we said yes [to a 2025 contract].”
Binotto also explained that McLaren did not stand in Bortoleto’s way of a move – meaning one of the Brazilian’s main barriers was eliminated.
Looking ahead to the next few years, Sauber will look to provide their drivers with the best possible machinery to succeed.
