Gabriel Bortoleto, a Brazilian talent widely regarded as a future star, was confirmed as Sauber’s second driver for the 2025 Formaula 1 season on Wednesday. At just 20 years old, he’s set to become the first full-time Brazilian driver in F1 since Felipe Massa, joining from McLaren’s driver academy. Bortoleto’s impressive ascent through the ranks now puts him in close contention for this year's Formula 2 championship, where he currently leads Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar by a slim margin with only two rounds remaining.

A crucial figure in Bortoleto’s development has been Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, one of F1’s most celebrated drivers. Through his A14 Management agency, Alonso has guided Bortoleto’s career, even facilitating his move to McLaren’s junior program. Bortoleto has expressed gratitude to Alonso, acknowledging his role in shaping this opportunity.