Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber's team boss with 35 years in F1, hails Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto as the most collaborative driver pairing he's ever seen.
Why it matters
This rare harmony is crucial for Sauber's development, especially as it transitions into Audi. Their strong teamwork drives performance, highlighted by Hülkenberg's podium and Bortoleto's progress.
The details
- Season Progress: Hülkenberg (9th, 37 points) and rookie Bortoleto (17th, 14 points) consistently deliver. Bortoleto, reigning F2 champion, achieved a career-best sixth in Hungary.
- Wheatley's View: Having worked with iconic duos like Sebastian Vettel/Mark Webber and Max Verstappen/Daniel Ricciardo, Wheatley states this duo surpasses them: "it’s the closest, most collaborative driver pairing, I think I can even remember in all my time in Formula 1."
- Driver Traits: Wheatley praises Bortoleto's "fantastic work ethic" and rapid learning, while acknowledging Hülkenberg's "extraordinary experience" in guiding the young Brazilian. He expects Bortoleto's adaptation to new circuits to accelerate.
Driver perspectives
- Hülkenberg on Bortoleto: "He’s a very young, bright, very fast guy... has everything you need to become a great driver."
- Bortoleto on Hülkenberg: "Nico is a super strong driver... he deserved much more than that [first podium]." Bortoleto values Hülkenberg as a "very good teammate" for car discussions and mutual pushing.
What's next
This strong partnership is expected to continue benefiting Sauber as they pursue further improvements and solidify their path towards Audi.