Bortoleto Earns First Points at Austrian Grand Prix; Alonso Praises Rookie’s Performance
Gabriel Bortoleto secured the first points of his Formula 1 career during the Austrian Grand Prix, impressing veteran Fernando Alonso with his performance throughout the season. Bortoleto, under Alonso’s management, finished eighth after a competitive battle with the two-time world champion, who ultimately held his position.
Alonso commended Bortoleto’s consistent excellence this season. "It was very special for everyone in Gabriel’s group," he stated, highlighting the Brazilian’s "outstanding" weekend. Despite previous near-misses in point-scoring opportunities, Alonso emphasized Bortoleto’s deserving nature, noting, "Nico [Hulkenberg] always scored the points on Sundays, which wasn’t fair in Gabriel’s head."
Reflecting on his achievement, Bortoleto expressed confidence but also set higher goals. "It’s a big thing and a lot of confidence, but I have much bigger ambitions than top ten finishes," he remarked. The 20-year-old aims to race for victories and championships, underscoring his long-term aspirations.
Bortoleto also recognized the value of analyzing Alonso’s driving techniques for future improvement. "You should study his onboard footage at home," he advised, noting the veteran’s mastery in strategy and execution during their race. His insights reveal an awareness of the nuances of competitive driving, suggesting a focused approach to his development in the sport.
This milestone marks a significant moment in Bortoleto’s career, laying the groundwork for further successes in Formula 1.
