Brazilian aims to return to the points after a challenging weekend in the United States
Brazilian driver

Gabriel Bortoleto, from Osasco (SP), faces yet another challenge in his rookie Formula 1 season this weekend. The young competitor will contest the Mexican Grand Prix for the first time — the 20th round of the World Championship — held at the traditional Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City.
Still in North America, this round follows a tough weekend in Austin, Texas (USA), where Bortoleto finished the race in 18th place. The focus now is fully on bouncing back and regaining the strong form shown in previous races.

“I am really excited to race in Mexico this weekend. I have heard a lot about the atmosphere and the energy of the fans, and it is exciting to finally experience that in person. It is a track full of history, where some of the greatest names in Formula 1 have raced. After a difficult weekend in Austin, I want to leave that behind and focus on progressing step by step. Nico’s point showed the potential of our car, and I am determined to get back to that level too. We will have three practice sessions, which gives me the opportunity to learn and improve session by session,” said the Brazilian.

The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is one of the most technical and iconic circuits on the calendar. Measuring 4.304 km, it features 17 corners and two long straights that demand precision and aerodynamic balance. The altitude of Mexico City — over 2,200 meters above sea level — poses an additional challenge for teams and drivers, affecting engine performance and cooling systems.

The atmosphere at the circuit is considered one of the most vibrant in the championship. Mexican fans traditionally fill every grandstand, with special attention to the stadium section — an area that once hosted a baseball field and now turns into a true “cauldron” surrounding the Formula 1 cars.

Team manager Jonathan Weathley emphasized the importance of flawless execution for a strong result:
“Getting back into the top 10 recently was a good boost for the team after some difficult races. The Mexican GP brings technical challenges due to the altitude, but it is also one of the most energizing events of the year thanks to the passion of the fans. We know the C45 still has the potential to fight in the midfield, but that requires total focus and detailed execution from both sides of the garage.”

Sunday’s race will feature 71 laps and promises excitement from start to finish. Practice sessions and qualifying will be broadcast on BandSports, while the race will air on BAND.