Sauber have confirmed that Gabriel Bortoleto will join the team in 2025. As reported previously on LWOS, the Brazilian driver will complete an all-new driver pairing alongside Nico Hulkenberg.
Sauber combine youth and experience with Bortoleto and Hulkenberg signings
For several months, the two leading contenders to secure the remaining 2025 Sauber contract were Gabriel Bortoleto and Valtteri Bottas.
The Hinwil-based outfit were faced with two fundamental options – youth or experience.
Despite his best efforts, Bottas was unable to convince Sauber that he was deserving of a contract extension. The team have instead opted for a bold new line-up for.
Looking ahead to the new regulations in 2026, Sauber (who will become Audi F1) believe that Bortoleto is a talent worth investing in for the long-term.
Both from a performance and commercial standpoint, the Brazilian could be an immense asset – both for the team and wider brand.
Mattia Binotto, Sauber’s COO and CTO, has given his thoughts on the team’s new signing:
“Gabriel has already demonstrated in the junior categories that he has what it takes to be a winning driver.
“We are very pleased that he will become a team member of Sauber and Audi. Together with Gabriel, we are on a journey towards success, and we 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, positioning us strongly for the future.”
Bortoleto reacts to F1 contract
Gabriel Bortoleto offers thoughts on his Sauber deal:
“This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports.
“Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honour. Beyond simply being a member, I aim to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity given to me by the team and for the chance to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico.
“Both programs have a proven track record of nurturing young talent, and I am confident that together, we will write our own success story.”
