Hulkenberg Compares Teammate Bortoleto to 'Printer That Never Runs Out of Ink'

Nico Hulkenberg has given a unique compliment to his Sauber teammate Gabriel Bortoleto, likening the rookie to "a printer that never runs out of ink" amid his strong recent performances. Bortoleto has scored all 18 of his championship points in the last six races, proving vital for Sauber's constructors' championship aspirations.

Why it matters

Bortoleto's impressive turnaround is crucial for Sauber. After a challenging start to his rookie season and the team finishing last in the constructors' championship the previous year, his recent form positions them to contend for fifth place this season, currently trailing Williams by 31 points with eight races remaining. This surge also solidifies Bortoleto's reputation as a promising talent for the future of F1.

The compliment

Hulkenberg praised Bortoleto's consistent output to the media, noting the young Brazilian's ability to minimize errors. "He's just doing a really good job. He's a machine. He produces laps like a printer that never runs out of ink. It's pretty astonishing," Hulkenberg stated. He added, "He hardly makes any mistakes, given that he is a rookie. He produces the laps very comfortably, so he's just doing a really good job. He's strong."

Bortoleto's trajectory

• Difficult start: Bortoleto faced challenges early in his rookie year, consistent with the team's struggles from the previous season.
• Upgrade impact: Mid-season car upgrades provided Bortoleto with greater feel and confidence, directly leading to his improved results.
• Recent form: All 18 of his championship points have been scored in the last six races, highlighted by a strong sixth-place finish in Hungary.
• Team contribution: His consistent points-scoring is essential for Sauber as they aim to climb the constructors' standings.
• Hulkenberg's recent run: Notably, Bortoleto's recent success contrasts with Hulkenberg, who has not scored points since his historic third-place finish at the British Grand Prix.

The rookie's view

Bortoleto expressed gratitude for Hulkenberg's remarks, particularly from a driver he admired during his F3 and F2 careers for his speed. He acknowledged the challenge of being Hulkenberg's teammate.

• "I always used to watch him and be like, 'This guy is so quick,'" Bortoleto recalled.
• He admitted thinking, "Oh, that's going to be tough. This year is going to be pushy for me," upon learning of their partnership, recognizing the need to elevate his own game.
• Bortoleto highlighted their close competition: "Honestly, it's very close between us. If you look at the data, it's so close. We are extracting a lot from the car."

What's next

Hulkenberg regards Bortoleto as "one for the future," emphasizing his rapid learning curve in his debut season. The intensely competitive midfield means even milliseconds can alter positions, suggesting the close battle between the two Sauber drivers will remain a key factor in the team's performance for the remainder of the season.