McLaren’s Support for Bortoleto’s F1 Move
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has expressed his support for young driver Gabriel Bortoleto as he attracts attention from other Formula 1 teams, particularly Sauber. Stella made it clear that McLaren would not stand in the way of Bortoleto’s potential move to Sauber but would prefer to facilitate a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
Bortoleto, a protege of McLaren, has been making waves in the motorsport world with his impressive performances in various racing categories. After achieving success in Formula 4 and Formula Regional, Bortoleto clinched the Formula 3 championship as a rookie last year and currently leads the Formula 2 standings in his debut season.
With McLaren’s current drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris under long-term contracts, Stella acknowledged that there might not be an immediate opening for Bortoleto at McLaren. However, he emphasized the importance of retaining the young talent within the McLaren family for future opportunities.
Impressive Performance and Attitude
Stella commended Bortoleto not only for his on-track performance but also for his attitude and work ethic. The 19-year-old Brazilian has demonstrated consistency by finishing in the top 10 in 17 of the last 18 F2 races. Stella praised Bortoleto’s humility, willingness to learn, and dedication to improving as a driver.
According to Stella, Bortoleto’s approach to racing reflects a focus on the process rather than the outcome, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and taking each race as it comes. He highlighted Bortoleto’s resilience in overcoming challenges and his commitment to continuous improvement.
Future Prospects and Championship Contention
As Bortoleto continues to impress in the Formula 2 championship, he remains a strong contender for the title with four races left in the season. Despite facing stiff competition from drivers like Isack Hadjar, Zane Maloney, and Paul Aron, Bortoleto has maintained a competitive edge with 169.5 points accumulated so far.
The upcoming races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will play a crucial role in determining the championship outcome, with Bortoleto aiming to secure the title and further solidify his position as a rising star in the world of motorsport. Other contenders such as Jak Crawford, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and Victor Martins also remain in mathematical contention for the championship.
In conclusion, Gabriel Bortoleto’s journey in the Formula 2 championship showcases his talent, determination, and potential for a successful future in Formula 1. With McLaren’s support and encouragement, Bortoleto’s career trajectory looks promising as he navigates the competitive world of elite motorsport.