In 2025, Sauber will draw on both experience and youth, creating a diverse lineup not only in terms of age but also skill sets. Starting January 1, the Swiss team, set to display Audi’s four rings, will pair the experienced Nico Hulkenberg with the young talent of Gabriel Bortoleto.
The team, led by Alessandro Alunni Bravi, confirmed this morning that they have signed the 20-year-old Brazilian for next season, just minutes after officially announcing that Valtteri Bottas will depart at the end of this season.
This lineup shakeup is seen as a precursor to Sauber’s ambitious future, with Audi fully acquiring the Swiss team and racing under its iconic four-ring brand starting in 2026.
“This is one of the most exciting projects in all of motorsport,” Gabriel Bortoleto commented after being signed by Sauber-Audi. “To join a team that combines Sauber’s rich history with Audi’s legacy is truly an honor.”
“Beyond simply joining, my goal is to grow with this ambitious project and reach the top of motorsport. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and the chance to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico.”
“Both programs have a proven track record of nurturing young talent, and I’m confident we’ll build our own success story together.”
Born in São Paulo, Gabriel Bortoleto has impressed from his debut in FIA junior categories: in 2023, he won as a rookie in Formula 3, and this year he leads the FIA F2 championship in his debut season, with only two races (one final round) left. He could clinch the title in Abu Dhabi.
“Gabriel has already proven in the junior categories that he has what it takes to become a winning driver. We are very pleased he’ll be joining the Sauber and Audi team,” said Mattia Binotto.
“With Gabriel, we are on a path to success and will evolve into a unified force to shape a new era for Audi in motorsport. Nico and Gabriel are the ideal mix of experience and youth, positioning Sauber and Audi strongly for the future.”
Gabriel Bortoleto, currently a driver in the McLaren Academy, will finish this season with the Woking-based team before moving on to Sauber.
McLaren released an official statement regarding the Brazilian’s departure at the end of the season: “Gabriel Bortoleto will leave the McLaren Driver Development program at the conclusion of the 2024 season to pursue a new opportunity in his career.”
“It has been a pleasure working with Gabriel over the past year, contributing to his success and development as a driver through the McLaren Driver Development program. With Lando and Oscar as a strong lineup, we’ve always been clear that we would not stand in the way of Gabriel’s career advancement while we’re unable to offer him a seat with McLaren. We look forward to continuing our support for Gabriel in his 2024 FIA Formula 2 title campaign and wish him the best for his career beyond F2.”
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