Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto is ready for another challenge in his rookie Formula 1 season. This weekend, the 20-year-old will represent Stake F1 Team | Kick Sauber at the Dutch Grand Prix, the 15th round of the World Championship, marking Formula 1\u2019s return after a three-week summer break in Europe.
Enjoying a period of steady progress in his debut year, Bortoleto arrives in Zandvoort on the back of three consecutive points finishes, achieved in the races leading up to the break. With 14 points collected so far, the Brazilian currently sits 17th in the drivers\u2019 standings, showcasing the consistent growth he has displayed throughout 2025.
\u201cI am really excited for this comeback. The three weeks off were crucial to recharge my batteries, but also to stay sharp. I worked extensively on the simulator, both at the factory in Hinwil and on my personal equipment, while also keeping up with my physical training,\u201d said Bortoleto.
The Zandvoort Circuit presents a special challenge for the S\u00e3o Paulo-born driver. His last outing at the Dutch track came in 2022, still competing in the FRECA Championship, with cars far less powerful than today\u2019s F1 machines. \u201cI practically had to start my preparation from scratch for this race. The difference in power and downforce is massive compared to what I knew from the track,\u201d explained the Brazilian.
All the hard work during the break paid off immediately. In Friday\u2019s first free practice session, Bortoleto showed good adaptation to the circuit, finishing ninth with a time of 1:11.509. In the second session, focused on race preparation, he recorded 1:11.320 and closed the day in 13th place.
\u201cToday\u2019s sessions were very productive. We managed to work on both qualifying pace and race pace. The car is behaving well, and I feel confident heading into the rest of the weekend,\u201d assessed the Sauber driver.
Zandvoort is one of the most traditional and demanding circuits on the calendar. Opened in 1948, the Dutch track hosted F1 races from 1952 to 1985, before returning in 2021 after major renovations. At just 4.259 km in length, with 14 corners and two DRS zones, the track demands maximum precision from the drivers. Sunday\u2019s race will run over 72 laps, with the lap record held by Britain\u2019s Lewis Hamilton (1:11.097, set in 2021).
WEEKEND SCHEDULE (Bras\u00edlia time):
Saturday (30\/08)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sunday (31\/08)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pictures: Stake F1 Team | Kick Sauber
Press office of Gabriel Bortoleto
Responsible journalist: Fl\u00e1vio Quick<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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