Alonso praises F2 champion Bortoleto and their unique manager-driver relationship
Fernando Alonso has heaped praise on young talent Gabriel Bortoleto, calling the reigning F2 champion the “best of the new generation.”
Bortoleto secured an F1 spot with Kick Sauber after winning the F2 title in his rookie season, following stars like Charles Leclerc and George Russell. This year, he faces the challenge of racing against his manager, Alonso.
Both drivers faced difficulties in the Australian Grand Prix, but Alonso was full of praise for Bortoleto. “Very impressive, very good, but no surprises,” Alonso said. “He’s the best of the new generation – together with Ollie Bearman. He worked really hard all winter long. The race was super tricky for everybody, so it was a hard test, but it was very impressive – the first of many.”
Despite the friendly banter during the pre-event FIA press conference, the competition on track could intensify. Alonso humorously remarked, “I think there are clear rules that I stay in front, that’s my understanding!”
Alonso added, “It’s great to see Gabriel’s career so far. For us at A14 [Alonso's management company], we feel extremely proud of the relationship. This year is going to be the first year he’s not winning, so we have to maybe accept that. But it’s part of his learning curve.”
Bortoleto acknowledged Alonso's mentorship, saying, “He’s been able to teach me a lot of things – how to maximize my performance on track by managing my efforts outside of it. Things like how to handle the days here, Thursdays and Fridays, to be focused on what really matters during the weekend.”
While they didn't get to race each other in Australia, Bortoleto is looking forward to more direct competition in China. “I’ve watched him my whole life racing, and now racing against him in Formula 1, with him also being my manager, it’s going to be very nice. A good opportunity.”
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