Formula 1 icon Fernando Alonso has publicly endorsed rising motorsport talent Gabriel Bortoleto, declaring the young Brazilian driver is primed for a future in the elite racing series. Alonso, a two-time F1 world champion, shared his high praise for Bortoleto during a recent interview, highlighting the 19-year-old's exceptional skills and maturity on the track.
Alonso's Stamp of Approval
The Aston Martin driver didn't hold back in his assessment of Bortoleto's potential: 'He's shown incredible consistency and racecraft in the junior categories. The way he manages tyres and race situations reminds me of how top drivers approach Grand Prix weekends.'
Bortoleto's Rapid Rise
Bortoleto, currently part of McLaren's driver development programme, has been turning heads in Formula 3 where he dominated the 2023 season. His performances have sparked speculation about when rather than if he'll make the jump to Formula 1.
- Won 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship
- Part of McLaren's elite driver development squad
- Demonstrated remarkable race management skills
The Path to F1
While Alonso stopped short of predicting when Bortoleto might secure an F1 seat, he emphasised that the young Brazilian possesses all the necessary qualities: 'The speed is obviously there, but what impresses me most is his ability to learn quickly and adapt. These are the traits that separate good drivers from great ones in Formula 1.'
The endorsement from one of F1's most experienced drivers carries significant weight in the paddock, potentially accelerating Bortoleto's path to the sport's top tier.
