Veteran Hülkenberg Admits Learning from Rookie Teammate Bortoleto in 2025

In a role reversal for Formula 1, Nico Hülkenberg found himself learning valuable lessons from his rookie teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, during Sauber's 2025 season. The veteran driver acknowledged that the Brazilian's raw speed, technical feedback, and assertive approach provided insights that challenged the traditional dynamic of experience solely mentoring youth, highlighting a surprisingly balanced partnership that contributed to the team's most significant points haul in over a decade.

Why it matters:

This shift underscores the evolving landscape of F1, where highly prepared rookies from advanced junior formulas can immediately challenge established drivers. It validates the modern development pathway and suggests that team performance can benefit from a genuine two-way exchange of ideas, regardless of seniority.

The details:

• Sauber's 2025 campaign, while resulting in a ninth-place constructors' finish, was its most productive since 2012, capped by Hülkenberg's maiden podium at Silverstone.
• Rookie Gabriel Bortoleto quickly adapted, securing five top-10 finishes and an impressive sixth place in Hungary.
• Despite Hülkenberg outscoring him overall, Bortoleto won their qualifying head-to-head battle 12–11, demonstrating immediate one-lap prowess.
• Hülkenberg explicitly confirmed learning from his teammate, praising Bortoleto's "driving inputs" and "driving techniques" as areas of particular strength.
• The partnership was characterized by mutual data analysis and feedback, with the rookie's assertive style and detailed observations offering fresh perspectives to the 15-year veteran.

The big picture:

Hülkenberg's experience reflects a broader trend where the gap between rookies and veterans is narrowing. Drivers like Bortoleto arrive with extensive simulator work and data analysis skills, allowing them to contribute technically from the outset. For Sauber, this productive dynamic provided a stable foundation during a rebuilding year, proving that a harmonious and collaborative driver pairing is a tangible asset beyond mere points scoring.

What's next:

The lessons from this partnership will be invaluable as Sauber transitions into the Audi works team for 2026. Bortoleto's continued development alongside Hülkenberg's experience could form a potent combination for the new era. For Hülkenberg, the season reinforced that the learning process in F1 never truly stops, even for a driver celebrating a long-awaited first podium.