Sauber Racing has confirmed the signing of Gabriel Bortoleto for the 2025 Formula 1 season, forming a dynamic partnership with veteran Nico Hülkenberg. This announcement marks an exciting chapter for the team as it prepares for its future as part of the Audi motorsport family.
Bortoleto’s Transition from McLaren
Despite his affiliation with McLaren as an academy member, Bortoleto has long been on Sauber’s radar. McLaren team principal, Andrea Stella, expressed openness to Bortoleto’s move, emphasising that he wouldn’t hinder the Brazilian’s opportunity to secure a race seat.
Consequently, Sauber capitalised on this opportunity, bringing the 20-year-old talent on board after confirming the departures of current drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.
A New Era with Audi
“This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports,” Bortoleto expressed. “Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honour.”
He added, “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.”
Proven Track Record
Bortoleto has impressed over the past two seasons, having won the FIA F3 championship as a rookie in 2023. His performance this year in Formula 2, maintaining top-six consistency, showcases his potential and resilience, even with just two wins.
“Gabriel has already demonstrated in the junior categories that he has what it takes to be a winning driver,” Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of Sauber Motorsport, remarked. “We are very pleased that he will become a part of the Sauber and Audi team.”
Strategic Significance
The partnership is seen as a strategic move by Audi as it positions itself in the competitive Formula 1 arena. Gernot Doellner, Chairman of the Sauber Motorsport board, highlighted the importance of adding young talent to the team’s roster.
“Led by Mattia, Audi’s Formula 1 project is making great progress in many areas. The signing of the second driver is another milestone,” Doellner commented. “We are currently witnessing a generational shift in Formula One, with young drivers immediately making an impact. By signing Gabriel Bortoleto, we have secured one of these top talents. His signing underscores Audi’s long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1.”
Outlook for Sauber Racing
This latest development marks a significant step in Sauber’s evolutionary journey. As the team navigates through a challenging season, currently without points since 2014, the collaboration between Hülkenberg and Bortoleto promises fresh energy and strategic potential as they aim to accelerate their competitiveness.
With renewed focus and talent, Sauber Racing, in partnership with Audi, is poised to craft a prosperous future in the world of Formula 1.
