Bortoleto – Foto: Instagram
Gabriel Bortoleto, Brazilian Sauber driver, denied rumors of a potential move to Ferrari in 2027 during an interview in Austin at the United States Grand Prix on Friday, October 17, 2025. He emphasized his commitment to Sauber, which will become Audi in 2026, highlighting loyalty to the project that first backed him. His contract, lasting three years with a renewal option, reinforces his stay. Bortoleto’s recent strong performances in Formula 1 have boosted his reputation in the paddock.
- Commitment to Sauber-Audi until at least 2026.
- Focus on developing a competitive car to contend for titles.
- Rejection of speculation about a team switch.
Long-term project
Bortoleto stated his future lies with Sauber-Audi, a project he considers a priority. He stressed the importance of consistent results to achieve victories. Despite Sauber’s last-place finish in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship, he remains confident in the car’s development.
Team support
Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber’s team principal, compared Bortoleto to multi-champions like Schumacher and Verstappen. He emphasized the bet on the Brazilian to build a winning team. The transition to Audi in 2026 is seen as a milestone for the team to reach new heights.
Optimism for 2026
Bortoleto believes in Sauber-Audi’s potential to compete for titles in the future. He highlighted his determination to work daily toward this goal. He views the Audi partnership as the “project of his life.” The team plans to leverage Audi’s expertise to improve performance. The Brazilian is confident in technical progress for 2026.
Recent results boost confidence
Bortoleto’s strong 2025 performances have drawn attention from teams like Ferrari. However, he remains focused on Sauber-Audi, ruling out short-term changes. Car development remains a challenge, but he trusts in technical advancements for 2026.
Preparation for the US GP
Bortoleto trained with Max Verstappen on a simulator to prepare for the Austin track. The race, set for Sunday at 4 p.m. Brasília time, will have live coverage. The Austin circuit is known for its demanding corners and high competitiveness. The event is an opportunity for Sauber to test car upgrades.
Future expectations
With Audi’s entry, Sauber plans a technical overhaul for 2026. The project includes chassis and aerodynamics improvements, critical areas in F1. The team also aims to attract experienced engineers to speed up development. At 21, Bortoleto is seen as a key figure in this process, with potential to lead the team to podiums and victories. His dedication and recent results reinforce Sauber-Audi’s bet on a promising future.
