Why Bortoleto thinks Verstappen could be the perfect teammate

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Gabriel Bortoleto is not buying into the widespread idea that lining up alongside Max Verstappen is Formula 1’s ultimate poisoned chalice.

Instead, the young Audi driver sees opportunity, inspiration – and even unity – where others see only pressure.

The four-time world champion’s reputation as a relentlessly demanding benchmark has long followed him around the paddock, reinforced recently by former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez, who described the role of racing alongside Verstappen as “the best and the worst job in F1”.

But Bortoleto is firmly on the optimistic side of the debate.

Seeing beyond the pressure

Speaking candidly about Verstappen’s impact, Bortoleto focused less on the difficulty of competing against the Dutchman and more on what he brings to a team environment.

“Maybe Max will come to Audi someday, who knows,” he said, quoted by Speedweek. “We work very well together as friends. He helps me a lot. That’s why I also believe he can be a very good team-mate.”

For Bortoleto, Verstappen’s greatness isn’t just about speed or trophies – it’s about leadership.

“Because when he joins a team, he manages to unite everyone. He didn’t win four world championship titles by chance,” the 21-year-old added.

“He became world champion with a team that wasn’t yet a world champion team when he joined. Then he helped build it up and ensured it achieved victories.

“That’s why I believe it wouldn’t be a bad thing to work with him.

“Of course, only if he joins Audi, because I’m definitely happy with my team and the project we have here.”

Read also: Bortoleto opens up on Verstappen’s key career advice

After being brought into Formula 1 by Sauber last season, Bortoleto delivered a quietly impressive rookie campaign, scoring points five times and finishing as high as sixth at the Hungarian Grand Prix on his way to 19 points overall.

Rather than fearing Verstappen’s shadow, Bortoleto would see light – and perhaps a blueprint for success.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.