Fernando Alonso and Gabriel Bortoleto: F1 Rivals Bonded by Mentorship
In a thrilling twist of fate, veteran Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso finds himself in an unprecedented situation in his 22nd F1 season. Among the six rookie racers on the 2025 grid stands Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto, a young talent who happens to be Alonso’s official protege under the A14 driver management stable since 2023.
Despite being F1 rivals now, with Bortoleto stepping up to the F1 grid, Alonso remains committed to mentoring and guiding the promising driver. The intriguing dynamic between the two was recently brought to light during the Chinese Grand Prix, where Alonso humorously remarked, “I think there are clear rules that I stay in front! That’s my understanding!”
While their relationship adds a unique layer to the high-stakes world of F1 racing, Alonso and Bortoleto both acknowledge the importance of their bond. Bortoleto, who clinched the 2023 Formula 3 and 2024 Formula 2 championships as a rookie, values Alonso’s experience and advice as he navigates his inaugural F1 season.
Alonso, a two-time F1 world champion, shares his insights on various aspects of racing with Bortoleto, from on-track performance to off-track preparation and marketing activities. Despite the competitive nature of F1, Alonso remains dedicated to helping Bortoleto succeed, emphasizing the significance of performance when the helmet goes on.
As the F1 season unfolds, the mentor-mentee duo continues to learn from each other, with Bortoleto seeking guidance from Alonso on wet-weather racing and strategic insights from fellow drivers like Max Verstappen. Their camaraderie extends beyond the track, showcasing a unique blend of competition and mentorship in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.
Although their on-track battle in Shanghai didn’t materialize as hoped, with Alonso finishing ahead and Bortoleto spinning off early in the race, the duo’s mutual respect and support remain unwavering. Despite the challenges they faced at the start of the 2025 campaign, Alonso and Bortoleto’s journey as F1 rivals bonded by mentorship promises a compelling narrative for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
