Gabriel Bortoleto Reacts to Max Verstappen's Red Bull Endorsement
Sauber F1 driver Gabriel Bortoleto has confirmed that Max Verstappen privately recommended him to Red Bull even before his Formula 1 debut, urging the team to 'keep an eye' on the young Brazilian. Bortoleto, who sought Verstappen's career advice frequently, expressed gratitude for the champion's consistent support and mentorship, highlighting the significance of such an endorsement in his journey.
Sauber Formula 1 driver Gabriel Bortoleto has confirmed Max Verstappen's long-standing support, including the revelation that Verstappen urged Red Bull to 'keep an eye' on him before his F1 debut. Bortoleto expressed appreciation for Verstappen's advice and mentorship throughout his junior career, highlighting the impact of the champion's endorsement.
Why it matters:
Max Verstappen's early endorsement of Gabriel Bortoleto to Red Bull underscores the young Brazilian's potential and highlights the informal networks that can influence driver development in F1. Such backing from a four-time world champion can significantly elevate a junior driver's profile and open doors to top-tier teams, even if Bortoleto ultimately signed with Sauber.
The details:
- During an appearance on the Pelas Pistas podcast with Bortoleto, Verstappen revealed he had told Red Bull to 'keep an eye on Gabi' even before Bortoleto entered F1.
- Bortoleto confirmed his close relationship with Verstappen, stating the Dutchman has always provided support and realistic advice throughout his junior career.
- He often sought Verstappen's guidance on crucial career decisions, such as which teams or opportunities to pursue.
- Bortoleto was aware Verstappen had spoken to Red Bull about him, but the exact timing and specifics of Verstappen's recommendation were a surprise until the podcast revelation.
- Team Principal Confirmation: Jonathan Wheatley, Red Bull's Sporting Director, had also reportedly confirmed Verstappen's prior recommendation, saying, 'keep an eye on this guy, he can be very good in Formula 1.'
- Bortoleto ultimately signed with Sauber for his rookie F1 season and currently holds 19th position in the drivers' standings with 19 points.
The big picture:
Verstappen's support for Bortoleto extends beyond a casual mention, reflecting a genuine belief in the young driver's talent. While Bortoleto ended up at Sauber, Verstappen's early recognition from a leading team principal can be a significant psychological boost and validation of his capabilities. It also demonstrates how a champion's informal network can subtly shape the careers of emerging talents.
What's next:
With his rookie season underway at Sauber, Bortoleto will aim to demonstrate the potential that caught Max Verstappen's attention. Continued strong performances could make him a more prominent figure on the F1 grid, proving Verstappen's early assessment correct and potentially attracting further interest from top teams in the future.