Gabriel Bortoleto Praises Fernando Alonso: 'One of the GOATs'

Fernando Alonso, still chasing a third Formula 1 title nearly two decades after his last championship in 2006, has received resounding praise from Gabriel Bortoleto, a driver under Alonso's management. Bortoleto insists Alonso is "one of the greatest of all-time" and unequivocally deserves more than his two current world titles, highlighting the often-unforgiving nature of F1 where timing and team are everything.

Why it matters:

Fernando Alonso's enduring presence and relentless pursuit of a third F1 championship at 44 years old underscore his legendary status. Bortoleto's comments echo a sentiment widely held among fans and peers alike: that Alonso's raw talent and consistent performance have often been underserved by circumstances, making his career a prime example of how F1's competitive landscape can sometimes overshadow individual brilliance.

The Details:

• Enduring Legacy: Alonso's 2006 F1 drivers' title was his second, and he has been in pursuit of a third for 19 seasons, a testament to his longevity and dedication.
• Near Misses: The Aston Martin driver came agonizingly close to additional championships in 2010 and 2012, both seasons where the title fight went down to the wire.
• Fueling Motivation: His ongoing quest for a third title is a significant driver behind his continued participation at the pinnacle of motorsport, showcasing his unwavering competitive spirit.
• Bortoleto's Admiration: Gabriel Bortoleto, who is part of Alonso's A14 management company, is a vocal admirer of the Spanish veteran.
• "Definitely, Yes": When asked by RacingNews365 if Alonso deserved more than two titles, Bortoleto responded with an emphatic "Definitely, yes," asserting Alonso's place among the sport's all-time greats.
• F1's Unfairness: Bortoleto acknowledged that F1 often requires a driver to be "in the right place, in the right time," suggesting that many talented drivers, including Alonso, have been hindered by external factors rather than a lack of skill.
• Deserving Champions: While affirming that all F1 world champions are highly skilled, Bortoleto emphasized that the comparison isn't always fair, and Alonso's driving prowess merited more championships.

The Big Picture:

Alonso's career, marked by flashes of brilliance and periods of frustration, highlights a common theme in Formula 1: individual talent, no matter how exceptional, must align perfectly with a competitive car and strategic team decisions to translate into multiple world championships. His continued drive, despite the odds, solidifies his reputation as one of the sport's most determined figures, inspiring younger generations like Bortoleto.

What's next:

As Fernando Alonso continues his season with Aston Martin, the question of whether he can secure that elusive third title remains a central narrative. Bortoleto's powerful endorsement adds another layer to Alonso's storied career, ensuring his legacy will be discussed not just in terms of championships won, but also for his undeniable talent and relentless pursuit of excellence, regardless of the final tally.