Data analysis seems to rule out a mechanical failure in Gabriel Bortoleto’s crash in Brazil, suggesting the severe incident may have been caused by a significant driver error. The Sprint Race ended with a dramatic accident at Turn 1 involving Gabriel Bortoleto in his Sauber single-seater. Fortunately, the driver escaped without physical injury and received clearance from the medical team despite the violent impact.
While attempting to overtake Alex Albon, Gabriel Bortoleto moved left at the end of the straight but lost control of the rear of the car, colliding violently with the barriers. At first glance, the crash might appear to be a simple driver mistake, but a closer examination reveals more. At the moment of losing control, the DRS was still open — an extremely dangerous condition when braking and changing direction, which likely contributed to the crash. The high speed, 341 km/h, and wet track conditions worsened the situation, making it impossible to recover the car once it was out of control. The DRS remaining open initially suggested a potential mechanical failure.
Why a mechanical failure can be ruled out
A second theory, based on video footage, proposed a failure in the rear wing closure, but telemetry data revealed otherwise. As Gabriel Bortoleto moved left to attempt the overtake, he was at 100% throttle. Only when he lightly applied the brakes did he lose control. According to F1 regulations, the DRS must be manually activated by the driver and automatically closes when the brake is applied or the activation button is pressed again.
Telemetry confirms that as soon as Gabriel Bortoleto braked, the DRS closed normally, excluding the possibility of a failure. Therefore, the crash appears to be a driver error: Gabriel Bortoleto did not manually close the DRS in a particularly challenging situation.
The likely cause of the crash
It is reasonable to assume that the driver changed direction and braked aggressively, causing a sudden weight transfer to the front and a loss of front-end grip, all while the DRS was still open. The wet track conditions further reduced available grip. Gabriel Bortoleto’s incident is reminiscent of Jack Doohan’s crash at Suzuka — likely an inexperience-related mistake, understandable for a rookie, especially under the difficult conditions seen today in São Paulo.
That was a big crash 💥
Huge relief to know Gabi is all right 🙏#F1Sprint #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/NNxKKSopr4
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 8, 2025
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