Gabriel Bortoleto has made his Formula 1 future clear by confirming that he holds a long-term contract with Audi and intends to remain with the team for the coming seasons. The Brazilian driver dismissed speculation surrounding contractual clauses and described himself as a central part of Audi’s ambitious project, which is being developed with 2030 as a long-term reference point.
During the summer break in Brazil, Gabriel Bortoleto reflected on his progress, the difficulties he encountered during his rookie season and what awaits him during the second half of the championship. Speaking to Motorsport, Gabriel Bortoleto explained that his struggles at several circuits outside Europe last year were partly caused by his lack of previous experience at those venues.
Gabriel Bortoleto expects circuit knowledge to make a major difference
Gabriel Bortoleto believes familiarity with the circuits will help him considerably during his second Formula 1 season. When he arrived at many of the non-European venues last year, the Brazilian was learning both the track and the demands of competing at the highest level of motorsport.
“I think it was partly because some of them were my first time there,” Gabriel Bortoleto explained. “Obviously, it was my first year in F1. We also know that the car we had in the past was slightly different. We were part of a team that rarely managed to reach Q3, and many times it was difficult even to reach Q2.”
Limited qualifying opportunities increased the importance of immediately finding the correct rhythm. With only one realistic attempt available in Q1, Gabriel Bortoleto often had to produce his best performance before fully understanding the circuit and its changing conditions.
“Very often, I had only one attempt in qualifying, in Q1, and I had to give everything on the first lap,” Gabriel Bortoleto continued. “I think that last year, in most cases, knowing a circuit made a huge difference for precisely that reason. When you know a circuit, when you have already been there three or four times in other championships, the difference is enormous. You know where the bumps are, where the corners are and how to approach them.”
The Brazilian’s results appeared to support that assessment. Gabriel Bortoleto generally performed more strongly at circuits he had previously visited, whether they were located in Europe or elsewhere on the Formula 1 calendar.
“Statistically, I think last year I achieved much better results at the circuits I already knew, including those outside Europe, such as Melbourne, as well as all the European circuits,” Gabriel Bortoleto said. “But also outside Europe – in Abu Dhabi, for example, I had an excellent qualifying session.”
“I therefore hope that this year, with one year of experience at these circuits – which is obviously still not three or four years – I already have a clearer idea of what to expect.”
How Gabriel Bortoleto has changed since his F1 debut
Comparing himself with the driver who first entered Formula 1, Gabriel Bortoleto now feels like an entirely different competitor. His opportunity arrived rapidly, leaving him with very little preparation before he had to begin a complete Grand Prix season.
“I arrived in F1 without any experience,” Gabriel Bortoleto said. “Everything happened very quickly. The F1 opportunity presented itself from one moment to the next. I had completed very little testing, not even any TPC running. In practice, I had to go straight into an F1 season, complete pre-season testing in Bahrain, and that was it. I therefore learnt an enormous amount during the year.”
Gabriel Bortoleto believes the support of the team has been crucial throughout that development. The Brazilian is also encouraged by the progress made with the car, which has shown more potential than Audi’s results initially suggested.
“I am still learning a lot,” Gabriel Bortoleto added. “I have had a team that supported me all the way. Last year, we experienced some fantastic moments. So far, I am also very satisfied with my season this year. We have achieved many milestones together and we are making the car increasingly competitive.”
Gabriel Bortoleto confirms long-term Audi F1 future
Gabriel Bortoleto was equally decisive when discussing his contract and the rumours surrounding his future. Although he could not reveal confidential details, the Brazilian insisted that the clauses being discussed do not exist and that he expects to remain with Audi for several years.
“As far as I am allowed to say, because it is a confidential matter, let us simply say that there are no clauses of that kind,” Gabriel Bortoleto explained. “I have a long-term contract with Audi. I have already said it: I will be with Audi next year and also in the following years.”
“The intention, and I have always said this from the beginning, is for this to be a long-term project. Mattia Binotto always talks about 2030. Let us put it that way. It is a project in which we genuinely believe. I believed in it when I joined the team, they believe in my potential, and that is all I can say.”
Audi’s first season as a full Formula 1 constructor has represented the opening stage of a much longer technical plan. The manufacturer has had to develop both a new chassis and its own power unit, with its engine development programme expected to remain a central part of its progress.
“I am very excited,” Gabriel Bortoleto said. “This year was the first step, with the creation of a new car and a new engine. Next year will be another step forward, and then we can begin putting into practice what we have done.”
Bortoleto praises Nico Hülkenberg and declares Audi seat safe
Gabriel Bortoleto was also asked whether a reserve-driver position could represent a useful opportunity for someone hoping to race for Audi in the future. He responded by making clear that he has no concerns about his own position, while refusing to discuss the contracts of other drivers.
Gabriel Bortoleto also emphasised how much he enjoys working alongside Nico Hülkenberg, highlighting the German driver’s speed, experience and contribution to the team.
“I can say that my seat is safe,” Gabriel Bortoleto stated. “I do not intend to discuss other people’s contracts, but I genuinely enjoy working with Nico. That is something I want to say and make very clear. He is someone I like very much.”
“He is fast, he has experience and he brings many positive aspects to the team. We will see what the future holds. But I am happy. I believe in myself and I believe in my potential.”
Gabriel Bortoleto impressed by Audi’s new leadership
Following Jonathan Wheatley’s departure and the arrival of Mattia Binotto and Allan McNish, Gabriel Bortoleto expressed strong satisfaction with Audi’s current management structure. The Brazilian believes the changes have provided the stability needed for the team to continue developing the R26, a car whose chassis performance has become increasingly encouraging.
“I am very satisfied with Mattia and Allan McNish,” Gabriel Bortoleto concluded. “Allan is doing an excellent job and, as far as Mattia is concerned, I have no words. Everything he has done with the team so far has been impressive.”
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