Verstappen Supports Bortoleto in Formula 1 Journey
Melbourne, Australia – Gabriel Bortoleto, the Sauber rookie, has received significant mentorship from four-time World Champion Max Verstappen throughout his progression into Formula 1. Their relationship, which began in 2017, has strengthened, with Verstappen providing critical insights and assistance during Bortoleto’s transition from Formula 3.
Bortoleto credits Verstappen for pivotal advice during the Australian Grand Prix, recommending he start on intermediate tires—a suggestion that proved successful. Additionally, during Austrian GP qualifying, Verstappen aided Bortoleto by providing a vital slipstream.
“Max is an amazing guy,” Bortoleto stated. “For me, together with Ayrton Senna, he’s the best driver ever. The way he approaches racing, his understanding of the car, and his patience are inspiring.”
Their bond was solidified in 2023 while Bortoleto raced in Formula 3. “We began talking frequently during my season and even played video games together—sim racing,” he remarked. “Max has helped me with tips and introduced me to key figures in the F1 paddock.”
Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber’s new team principal, remarked on Verstappen’s endorsement, stating that Bortoleto was highly rated before joining the team. “I know Max doesn’t often discuss this publicly, but he effectively supported me due to my performance in Formula 3,” Bortoleto confirmed.
Bortoleto’s first encounter with Verstappen was back in 2017 at a karting event where he was inspired by Verstappen’s burgeoning career. This became a focal point for Bortoleto’s aspirations.
Technical Development in Sim Racing
As they reconnect over sim racing, Bortoleto has emphasized the importance of practice in a virtual environment. “Sim racing has become extremely important for my development,” he explained. “When I arrive at a track, I feel like I’ve already completed many laps due to my practice at home.”
His journey began with challenges in sim racing, leading to a commitment to improve, spurred on by his father’s encouragement. Bortoleto now claims to be among the top ten drivers in Assetto Corsa, where he focuses extensively on improving his skills.
In 2023, Bortoleto officially joined Verstappen’s Team Redline, contributing to their sim racing endeavors. However, he clarified his role does not include offering assistance with car setup for the team.
A Rising Star in Motorsport
“I play a lot of Assetto Corsa nowadays for its realism regarding tire behavior and car dynamics,” Bortoleto stated. While navigating various racing games, he aims to transition back to iRacing to enhance his ranking in that simulation as well.
As an ambassador for Team Redline, his involvement showcases the increasing intertwining of virtual and real-world motorsports, reflecting both personal and professional growth within this competitive environment.
