Gabriel Bortoleto Earns Praise from Fernando Alonso as ‘Best Rookie of His Generation’

Sauber’s Rising Star Gabriel Bortoleto Earns High Praise from Alonso

Sauber’s rising star Gabriel Bortoleto has drawn high praise from two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso, who called him "the best rookie of his generation" following Bortoleto’s impressive performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The 20-year-old Brazilian secured a sixth-place finish in Budapest, just behind Alonso’s P5 result, marking his third points-scoring race in the last four outings. Bortoleto’s form has become one of the standout stories of the season, as he continues to thrive in his maiden campaign.

Alonso, a veteran of the sport, didn’t hold back in his admiration for the rookie. "He commits few errors, always putting pressure. He’s the best rookie of this generation," Alonso told reporters post-race. "If he was English, or something, and finished sixth in a Sauber, he’d be in all the news tomorrow. What he does is exceptional."

After a challenging start to the season, Bortoleto has found his stride, playing a pivotal role in helping Sauber climb to eighth in the Constructors' Championship. The Swiss team now sits one point behind Aston Martin heading into the summer break.

Reflecting on his progress, Bortoleto shared his thoughts with Sky Sports. "I was a very rookie-rookie driver when I started the season, but that’s of course normal. You progress a lot through your season when you start at that level, and I feel like I’ve been learning so much."

The Brazilian also praised his team’s work in Budapest. "We did an amazing job [in Hungary], the team gave me an amazing car for today’s race. We managed to put everything in place. The strategy was great. I don’t see how we could finish this half of the season better."

With the first half of the season now complete, Formula 1 enters a four-week summer break. The action resumes at the Dutch Grand Prix on August 31, where Bortoleto will look to continue his impressive form.

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