At the midpoint of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Fernando Alonso has publicly recognized Gabriel Bortoleto as the most exceptional talent among the rookie drivers, despite the Brazilian’s relatively low points count. While other newcomers like Kimi Antonelli and Isack Hadjar have made headlines with podium finishes and higher scores, Alonso remains convinced that Bortoleto represents a rare breed of racer destined for greatness.
Bortoleto, 20, is driving for Sauber in what is a transitional year for the team before it becomes Audi’s factory outfit in 2026. The Brazilian made a remarkable entry into F1 after winning both the Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships during his rookie year—an achievement that sets him apart. His victory over Isack Hadjar at the dramatic Abu Dhabi F2 finale last year cemented his reputation as a driver with outstanding composure and skill.
Bortoleto’s steady progress impresses Alonso beyond points scored
Despite having scored only four points up to this point in the season and standing 19th in the championship, Bortoleto’s performance has won Alonso’s admiration. The Spaniard emphasized that it is not the current tally but the overall capability and promise that matters.
When asked about Bortoleto’s potential, Alonso told reporters via GP Blog:
“Very good but no surprises at all. Last year in Abu Dhabi, I think that he is the best of this generation. He won Formula 3 as a rookie, he won Formula 2 as a rookie.”
This endorsement comes in a highly competitive rookie class. Kimi Antonelli, who stepped into Lewis Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes at just 18 years old, has accumulated 63 points, secured a sprint pole in Miami, and even earned a podium finish in Canada. Despite these achievements, Antonelli continues to trail behind his teammate George Russell in most races and qualifying sessions, highlighting the learning curve still ahead of him.
Isack Hadjar, driving for Racing Bulls, has also made a strong impression. With 21 points, he has amassed 58% of his team’s total points—an impressive rate for a rookie this season. Hadjar’s ability to capitalize on his package differentiates him as one of the most efficient newcomers on the grid.
Oliver Bearman, competing for Haas and backed by Ferrari’s junior program, has quietly impressed by splitting qualifying results evenly with teammate Esteban Ocon and trailing by less than six-hundredths of a second per lap, the second-best among rookies.
Alonso continued to highlight Bortoleto’s rise under more challenging preparatory conditions than some of his peers:
“No testing with older versions of cars, no TPC (Testing Previous Cars) programmes, no nothing. Coming to Formula 1, still delivering an incredible job. Some others, they have maybe better packages and things like that, maybe some others will achieve success before he does, but eventually over the long term he will always come as the best of this generation,”
Although other rookies like Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto have struggled, with Doohan being replaced after six rounds, Alonso’s confidence in Bortoleto remains unwavering.
Bortoleto’s role in Sauber’s resurgence under Alonso’s watchful eye
Bortoleto’s steady advancement aligns with a notable improvement in Sauber’s performance this season. Early struggles gave way to consistent points scoring following key upgrades introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix (Round 9). Since then, Sauber has scored points in every race, with standout moments including a double points finish in Austria and Nico Hulkenberg’s first career F1 podium with a third-place result at Silverstone.
Fernando Alonso, whose own Aston Martin ranks eighth in the Constructors’ Championship with 36 points, humorously remarked on the dynamic within Sauber:
“Now even with a team that was struggling last year, I think between him and Nico they managed to bring new motivation and the team is also improving. So far it’s an incredible job what he’s doing. But he’s still behind me.”
Currently, Sauber sits sixth in the Constructors’ standings with 41 points, just 18 points behind Williams. Alonso himself is 14th in the drivers’ classification with 16 points, while Bortoleto trails five places behind.
Alonso’s personal connection adds weight to his endorsement of Bortoleto
Fernando Alonso’s support for Gabriel Bortoleto goes beyond professional respect; it carries a personal dimension. Having formerly mentored drivers like Charles Leclerc and advised talents such as George Russell and Lando Norris, Alonso’s backing of Bortoleto signals a strong belief in the young Brazilian’s potential to leave a lasting impact on the sport.
As Sauber prepares to evolve into an Audi works team, Bortoleto’s development could be crucial in helping establish the outfit as a competitive force in the coming years. Alonso’s view suggests that while the rookie season numbers may appear modest, the long-term trajectory of Bortoleto might redefine his generation in Formula 1.
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Hamilton openly talks about having ADHD and explores his wide range of interests and passions.