F1 Dutch GP: Gabriel Bortoleto relies on Max Verstappen’s guidance. Gabriel Bortoleto prepares for his first Dutch GP at Zandvoort.

F1 | Dutch GP, Bortoleto asks Verstappen for advice

During the press conference in the Netherlands, Gabriel Bortoleto spoke about his summer break and openly admitted that he often asks Max Verstappen for help and guidance. The young Brazilian driver is preparing for his first Formula 1 weekend at Zandvoort, one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar. The Dutch track is famous for its steeply banked corners, its narrow layout, and the difficulty of overtaking, making it a true challenge for rookies and experienced drivers alike.

Bortoleto aims for another points finish, but the weather could play a decisive role

Bortoleto, who has already shown steady growth during his first season in Formula 1, is aiming to finish another race inside the points zone. Speaking to the media, including F1inGenerale, he shared details about his holiday, his first season so far, and the expectations for the Dutch Grand Prix. These were his words:

“I spent some time in Brazil, enjoyed being with my family, and took the opportunity to relax. We have improved a lot since the start of the year, and we know that in the midfield everything is very close. Qualifying performance makes a huge difference, and we hope to keep this momentum. Fighting for points is fantastic. It is not easy to make predictions for this weekend because of the weather.”

Verstappen as a friend and coach for Bortoleto

Looking ahead to his debut at Zandvoort, Bortoleto did not hide his admiration for the unique Dutch track. The Sauber driver also admitted that he often turns to Max Verstappen for advice, making the most of the opportunity to learn from the three-time world champion and local hero:

“I asked Verstappen for some tips on the track, but it has not been just about Zandvoort. I have completed a few laps on the simulator, and I am really curious about the banked corners I will find here.”

Gabriel Bortoleto is a driver who continues to grow race by race, making full use of simulator preparation and the experience of more seasoned colleagues. Sauber, under the new management of Tim Wheatley and Mattia Binotto, is giving both Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg the chance to consistently fight for points every weekend. With the Dutch Grand Prix offering such a unique challenge, the Brazilian rookie will once again count on his determination—and on Verstappen’s valuable advice—to keep progressing in Formula 1.