Gabriel Bortoleto

Bortoleto: Guided by Alonso, backed by McLaren, mentored by Verstappen

19:32, 09 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

Gabriel Bortoleto says he feels grateful for the opportunities he has had in his career and remains determined to make the most of them and reveals the role Fernando Alonso, Max Verstappen and McLaren played in his rise to F1.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, the Brazilian admitted he often reflects on how many talented friends are still waiting for a chance in Formula 1. Knowing they would “do anything” to be in his position, which he says, motivates him to work harder and give it his all in pursuit of success.

Alonso's guidance, 'very admirable and a great added value'

One of the most influential figures in his journey has been Fernando Alonso, who became involved in mid-2022. The Spaniard’s guidance proved especially valuable when Bortoleto stepped up to Formula 3 in 2023 and began racing on Formula 1 weekends.

Wanting to make a strong impression under the watchful eyes of every F1 team, Bortoleto sought Alonso’s advice on handling the pressure, expectations and race weekend management. Despite his busy schedule, Alonso always found time to help.

“One might think that someone as busy as Alonso wouldn't have time, but I can confirm that he always found it, perhaps sacrificing his breaks, and I find his willingness to help very admirable and, of course, a great added value."

Fernando Alonso and Gabriel Bortoleto have worked together for several years now

McLaren's pivotal role in Bortoleto's F1 debut

Results also played a crucial role in his rapid ascend. After winning the first two feature races of the 2023 F3 season, Bortoleto received a surprise phone call from Emanuele Pirro.

Although he had previously worked with Pirro’s son, Goffredo, his engineer in F4, he did not know Pirro personally or realise he was head of McLaren’s young driver programme.

"Emanuele proved to be a great person. It took a while to prepare the contract, but in the end, I was the first driver to officially join the programme.”

His rapid rise in Formula 2 took even McLaren by surprise. By the end of 2024, they had the new F2 champion in their ranks but no immediate F1 seat available, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris both secured on long-term contracts. But Bortoleto saw McLaren live up to their word.

"When they heard about this opportunity at Sauber, they kept their word and released me.”

Gabriel Bortoleto and Max Verstappen are friends outside the F1 paddock

Bortoleto reveals the depth of Verstappen's aid in his success

“A friendship was born thanks to our shared passion for virtual racing and simulators,” explained the Brazilian.

“I was in my first F3 season and Max helped me a lot with the simulator, suggesting what to try, changes to make and so on."

Today fans can revel in the comedic banter between the two given their many online interactions whiles racing on their simulators, the place where their friendship originated.

"We meet online, him at his house, me at mine, we play, we discuss a bit of everything," Bortoleto concluded.