As expected, Sauber has made a bold move for the future, signing Gabriel Bortoleto to partner Nico Hulkenberg for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
This dynamic duo will form the core of the future Audi squad, and carries the promise of exciting times ahead for the Swiss outfit.
Bortoleto has been a rising star in the motorsport world, and Sauber has been closely monitoring his progress.
Despite his ties to McLaren as an academy member, the team's principal, Andrea Stella, recognized the 20-year-old Brazilian's immense potential and graciously allowed him to answer Formula 1's calling.
In 2023, Bortoleto clinched the FIA F3 championship in his debut season in the series, while this year, his consistent top-six finishes in Formula 2 with Invicta, coupled with two impressive wins, have further solidified his credentials and earned him his right of pass to F1.
“This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports,” commented Bortoleto. “Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honor.
“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.”
Audi-Sauber F1 boss Mattia Binotto expressed his enthusiasm for Gabriel Bortoleto's addition to the team, highlighting the young driver's potential and the promising path ahead for Sauber and Audi in Formula 1.
“Gabriel has already demonstrated in the junior categories that he has what it takes to be a winning driver,” said the Italian. “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.”
Chairman of the Sauber Motorsport board Gernot Doellner added: “Led by Mattia, Audi's Formula 1 project is making great progress in many areas. The signing of the second driver is another milestone.
“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.”
Bortoleto's arrival at Sauber inevitably signals the end of the Hinwil-based team's three-year association with Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.
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