Gabriel Bortoleto’s name has been resonating steadily across the Formula 1 paddock in recent races. The Brazilian driver had a relatively quiet start to the 2025 season, but thanks in large part to the introduction of significant updates to his Sauber car, he has begun to demonstrate exceptional control and performance. His mastery of the vehicle has translated into points finishes in three of the last four events before the summer break.
These results are proving his critics wrong. Driving for Sauber, expectations aren’t centered on racking up massive points, as even breaking into the top ten is a challenge. What makes Gabriel Bortoleto stand out is that whenever he has qualified well, he has displayed top-tier speed and skill. Critics put him under pressure to score points, and Bortoleto has consistently responded, achieving the objectives set for him. Call him, and Bortoleto answers.
Who will be the 2025 rookie of the year? Bortoleto battles Hadjar
With his current momentum, Gabriel Bortoleto now appears to be the frontrunner for the 2025 rookie of the year award. Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, among all the rookie drivers, holds the most points and even boasts a podium finish, but his performance has been inconsistent. Driving the Mercedes, Antonelli has only managed to score a single point across the last four events.
Gabriel Bortoleto’s toughest rival is certainly Racing Bulls’ French driver Isack Hadjar. Hadjar has entered the top ten in six of the fourteen races held so far, earning him attention from Red Bull. However, the V-CARB he drives is considered on paper to have a performance advantage over the Sauber, which works against Hadjar. Some even speculate that such a car could allow a driver like Max Verstappen to shine.
Other rookies have struggled to make their mark in 2025. Oliver Bearman has yet to showcase his potential behind the wheel of the Haas, while Antonio Colapinto has not scored a single point driving the Alpine.
Gabriel Bortoleto’s rapid and impressive growth has captured widespread attention. Formula 1 often demonstrates that while it is easy to gain recognition, it is equally easy to lose it. If Bortoleto can maintain his current momentum and add a bit more consistency, nothing and no one will prevent him from establishing an early mark on what promises to be a brilliant career in the highest tier of motorsport.
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