Bortoleto’s Rise in F1: A Partnership with Verstappen
Recent Developments
Gabriel Bortoleto, the Sauber rookie, has garnered attention not only for his own achievements but also for his association with four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. Their relationship, fostering mutual respect and support, began prior to Bortoleto’s 2023 F1 debut and has included crucial advice and assistance during critical race situations.
Key Insights
Bortoleto credits Verstappen as a significant influence in his career. "For me, together with Ayrton Senna, he’s the best driver ever," Bortoleto remarked, lauding Verstappen’s racing acumen. Their bond strengthened through off-track activities such as sim racing, where they often share techniques and strategies.
Verstappen’s impact is underscored by Bortoleto’s conversations with Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber’s current team principal, who disclosed that Verstappen advocated for Bortoleto’s potential before he joined Sauber. This mentorship has been vital as Bortoleto makes his transition into F1.
Historical Meeting
Their inaugural meeting dates back to 2017, with Bortoleto recalling the mix of excitement and nerves that accompanied his request for a photo with Verstappen, then a rising star in F1. “He was absolutely cool and super nice,” Bortoleto reflected.
Sim Racing Influence
Bortoleto’s growth in sim racing has paralleled his real-world career. Initially struggling, he pivoted due to his father’s encouragement. This dedication has allowed him to develop as a competitive sim racer, claiming a spot among the top ten in Assetto Corsa for the F1 car.
"The simulator has become extremely important for my development," Bortoleto stated, articulating the benefits of familiarizing himself with tracks and car setups through virtual racing.
Team Redline Membership
Bortoleto’s involvement with Team Redline, Verstappen’s professional sim racing outfit, commenced in 2023. While currently focused on practice rather than car setup contributions, he remains active in the sim racing community and views these experiences as crucial to honing his skill.
Conclusion
As Bortoleto continues to progress in his F1 career, the synergistic support from Verstappen, paired with his commitment to sim racing, positions him as a driver to watch in the coming seasons. The blend of mentorship and technology in his development reflects a modern approach to racing, underlining the interconnected nature of F1 and sim racing.
