Imagine a Formula 1 legend whispering a secret to his team about a rising star, only to see that star snatched up by a rival. That's exactly what happened when Max Verstappen urged Red Bull to keep a close eye on Gabriel Bortoleto, just before the young Brazilian signed with Sauber for his F1 debut. But here's where it gets intriguing: Verstappen, a four-time F1 champion, didn't just casually mention Bortoleto's name—he specifically advised Red Bull to monitor his progress long before he even stepped into the F1 spotlight.
Bortoleto's journey to F1 is nothing short of impressive. Fresh off winning the Formula 2 Championship in 2024 and the Formula 3 Championship in 2023, the Brazilian driver secured his spot with the Swiss-based Sauber team. During an appearance on the Pelas Pistas podcast, Verstappen reflected on his early advice: 'I already said to the team before you even got to Formula 1, ‘keep an eye on Gabi.’ But now we’re all here, and let’s just see how it evolves.' This candid revelation highlights Verstappen's keen eye for talent and his willingness to spotlight emerging drivers.
But here's the controversial part: Could Bortoleto have been a future teammate for Verstappen at Red Bull? Verstappen, contracted with Red Bull until 2028, openly discussed the possibility of partnering with Bortoleto down the line. However, he admitted uncertainty about his own future beyond that date: 'First of all, I don’t even know how long I’m going to do myself. I have a contract until 2028, but after that, nothing is agreed on or what. I don’t even know myself.' He expressed hope that Bortoleto would get a competitive opportunity within the next three to four years, ideally in the same team, to fight for podiums together. Is this a subtle hint at a future Red Bull lineup, or just a champion's wish for a rising star?
Currently, Bortoleto sits 19th in the drivers' standings with 19 points, his best finish being a sixth place at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Partnered with Nico Hulkenberg at Sauber, Bortoleto has benefited from the German driver's wisdom, especially after a challenging home race weekend marked by two crashes. Hulkenberg's advice? 'You're going to have a lot of good and bad moments. It's just going to strengthen you.' Bortoleto remains determined, stating, 'I'm going to keep going strong and the good moments will come.'
And this is the part most people miss: While Bortoleto's F1 journey is just beginning, Verstappen's early endorsement could shape his trajectory in ways we can't yet predict. Will Bortoleto become a podium contender? Could we see him in a Red Bull car one day? Or will he carve his own path entirely? These questions make his story one to watch.
What do you think? Is Gabriel Bortoleto the next big thing in F1, or is it too early to tell? And should Red Bull have listened to Verstappen's advice more closely? Let us know in the comments below!
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