F1 STAR GABRIEL BORTOLETO TAKES A PAGE FROM MAX VERSTAPPEN’S PLAYBOOK WITH SIM RACING PASSION
In a thrilling revelation that has the Formula 1 world buzzing, Sauber F1 rookie sensation Gabriel Bortoleto is channeling his inner Max Verstappen, embracing the high-octane world of sim racing with fervor. At just 20 years old, Bortoleto has already made waves in his inaugural season, racking up an impressive 18 points. While his teammate Nico Hulkenberg’s long-awaited podium finish may have stolen some of the limelight, Bortoleto’s undeniable talent behind the wheel shines through.
But there’s more to this rising star than just his impressive stats—Bortoleto is leveraging a passion that he shares with the reigning world champion, Max Verstappen, to gain a competitive edge. “I love sim racing; it’s truly my passion,” Bortoleto enthusiastically revealed during a candid conversation on the Beyond the Grid podcast. “I don’t just use it as a tool for my work; I have a real soft spot for it.”
What sets Bortoleto apart? His unique strategy of diving into his simulator right after a race to refine his skills. “After a race on Sunday, I like to go straight home and get into my simulator. Then all the information is still fresh in my mind. I know exactly how to adjust the throttle, brakes, and steering wheel to simulate the weekend. Then I can really perfect the setup,” he explained, showcasing a level of commitment that could position him as a formidable contender on the grid.
While Bortoleto and Verstappen have shared their love for sim racing, the stark difference in their F1 machinery this year means they rarely get to battle it out on the actual track. However, their camaraderie remains intact, with Verstappen even predicting Bortoleto’s potential rise to the coveted 2025 Sauber seat when he was competing in F2 last season.
As the adrenaline-pumping Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, both Bortoleto and Verstappen are gearing up to unleash their sim racing honed skills against a field of 18 drivers. Will their virtual racing expertise translate to real-world success as the lights go out on Sunday? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: Bortoleto is a force to be reckoned with, and his drive is only intensifying!
In the fast-paced world of F1, where every millisecond counts, Bortoleto’s commitment to sim racing could very well be the secret weapon that propels him to the forefront of the competition. As the drama unfolds on the streets of Baku, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if this budding star can turn his virtual prowess into tangible results on the asphalt. Stay tuned, because the future of Formula 1 is revving up, and Gabriel Bortoleto is in the driver’s seat!
