Gabriel Bortoleto is a Formula 2 driver for Invicta Racing and is a McLaren Junior. Gabi is aiming to win the F2 title in his rookie campaign in 2024 and also has an eye on becoming the first Brazilian Formula 1 driver since Felipe Massa. He joined us for this exclusive interview on 5 Minutes with…

Who Is Gabriel Bortoleto?

Gabriel Bortoleto is a rising star in motorsport. The Brazilian racing driver captured attention by winning the 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship at just 19 years old. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the McLaren Driver Development Programme, positioning him as a promising talent for the future of Formula 1.

Bortoleto’s success extends beyond Formula 3. He secured a seat in the competitive FIA Formula 2 championship for the 2024 season, driving for Invicta Racing. This step up the motorsport ladder puts him closer to his goal of reaching Formula 1.

The young Brazilian has support from racing legend Fernando Alonso. With backing from a two-time Formula 1 world champion and the resources of McLaren’s development program, Bortoleto has a strong foundation for his career. His journey through the junior categories of motorsport showcases the path aspiring drivers take to reach the pinnacle of racing.

Early Life and Karting Career

Gabriel Bortoleto began his racing journey in Brazil at a young age, quickly rising through the karting ranks before transitioning to single-seater racing.

Beginnings in Brazil

Gabriel Bortoleto was born on October 14, 2004, in Brazil. He started karting at the age of 8, competing in the 2012 Campeonato Sulbrasileiro de Kart. This early exposure to competitive racing laid the foundation for his future success.

Bortoleto’s talent became evident as he progressed through various karting championships in Brazil. He honed his skills on local tracks, gaining valuable experience and catching the attention of racing scouts.

Transition to Single Seaters

In 2019, Bortoleto achieved a significant milestone by finishing third in both the European and World Karting Championships in the OKJ category. This success paved the way for his move to single-seater racing.

The Brazilian driver made his formula car debut in 2020, competing in the Italian F4 Championship. He joined KTF Sports, a Brazilian racing academy, which supported his transition to European racing.

Bortoleto’s rookie season in Italian F4 demonstrated his adaptability. He quickly learned the nuances of formula cars, setting the stage for his rapid progression through the junior ranks.

Rise through the Ranks

Gabriel Bortoleto’s ascent in motorsport has been marked by impressive performances and rapid progression. His journey showcases a young driver with exceptional talent and potential.

Formula 3 Achievements

Bortoleto made a significant impact in the 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship. Driving for Trident, he secured the title with remarkable consistency. The Brazilian clinched two victories, including a memorable win at Monza. His campaign was highlighted by multiple podium finishes, demonstrating his ability to perform at the highest level.

Bortoleto’s success in F3 caught the attention of McLaren. The team added him to their Driver Development Programme, recognizing his potential as a future star. This partnership provided additional support and resources for his career advancement.

Promising Formula 2 Debut

Following his F3 triumph, Bortoleto made the step up to FIA Formula 2 for the 2024 season. He continued his association with Trident, building on their successful partnership. The move to F2 represented a significant challenge, with increased competition and more powerful machinery.

Bortoleto adapted quickly to the new category. His debut at Sakhir showed promise, with competitive lap times and solid race craft. Early races yielded points finishes, indicating his ability to compete at this higher level. The Brazilian’s performances in F2 further cemented his status as a rising star in the motorsport world.