Wheatley Praises Bortoleto's Defining Composure in F1 Debut Season

Sauber's impressive turnaround in the latter half of the Formula 1 season has been significantly fueled by several factors, among them, the remarkable composure of rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, as highlighted by team principal Jonathan Wheatley.

After a measured start to his F1 career, the Brazilian has emerged as one of the grid's most consistent newcomers, securing points five times and achieving a season-best sixth place in Hungary.

His partnership with veteran Nico Hülkenberg has contributed 60 points to the team's tally so far. However, it's Bortoleto's demeanor, even more than his race results, that has truly captivated Wheatley.

Why it matters:

• Bortoleto's surprising maturity and methodical approach have not only contributed significantly to Sauber's mid-season resurgence but also underscore the value of mental fortitude in a sport often dominated by raw speed.
• For Sauber, nurturing such a composed talent could be a cornerstone for future stability and performance as they navigate the fiercely competitive midfield.

The Details:

• Unexpected Maturity: "I think it's the maturity that I've been the most surprised by," Wheatley remarked during the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, noting Bortoleto's ability to handle the typical frustrations of a rookie season with exceptional grace.
• Work Ethic and Team Integration: Beyond his natural speed, which was evident from his Formula 2 championship win, Bortoleto's dedication off-track has been paramount. Wheatley praised his relentless use of the simulator and his skill in "knitting his engineering team around him" – fostering a highly collaborative environment.
• Methodical Circuit Approach: Bortoleto displays rare patience at challenging circuits, opting to build up his pace rather than overdriving. This was evident in Monaco, Baku, and Singapore, where his only significant contact with barriers occurred during races, demonstrating a calculated and controlled progression.

The Big Picture:

While Bortoleto's individual progress shines, Sauber is deeply entrenched in a tight midfield battle. Only 12 points separate the teams from sixth to ninth in the Constructors' Championship, emphasizing the razor-thin margins and the importance of every point scored.

What's next:

• As Bortoleto's rookie campaign draws to a close, his composed rise has become a fitting symbol of Sauber's late-season form: steady, determined, and quietly building momentum.
• Wheatley's glowing remarks suggest that the young Brazilian's maturity could well be the team's most valuable discovery of the year, potentially laying the groundwork for stronger performances in upcoming seasons.
• The ongoing midfield fight means every race is critical for Sauber, with Wheatley emphasizing a "race at a time" approach and the necessity of minimizing mistakes.