A clear statement: Gabriel Bortoleto will remain an Audi works driver for years to come

Gabriel Bortoleto competed in his first Formula 1 season whilst still driving for Sauber. The Hinwil-based team was subsequently taken over by Audi and now competes as the German carmaker’s works team. Bortoleto remains on board and will continue to chase points for the brand with the four rings in the coming years, as he recently revealed.

Speaking to the Brazilian edition of ‘Motorsport.com’, the 21-year-old from São Paulo explained: “I can’t say everything, as some details are confidential, but as far as my contract is concerned, there are no clauses. I have a long-term agreement with Audi. And as I’ve already said: I’ll be racing for Audi next year, and not just that, but in the years to follow as well.”

Bortoleto went on to emphasise that this is a long-term project aimed at success, adding: “Mattia Binotto is always talking about 2030. So you could say: it’s a project we’ve always believed in; I believed in it when I came on board, and they believe in my potential – that’s all I can say. It’s a long-term project and I’m very excited. This year we’ve taken the first step. We’ve designed a new car and a new engine. Next year we’ll take another step forward, and then we’ll be able to put everything we’ve planned into practice.”

Delighted to be working with Nico Hülkenberg

He declined to comment on the rumours surrounding the possible departure of his experienced team-mate Nico Hülkenberg. “I can say that my seat is secure. And I won’t talk about other people’s contracts, but I can say that it’s really enjoyable working with Nico. I really like him; he’s fast, experienced and brings a lot of positivity to the team, and we’ll see what the future holds. But I’m happy; I believe in myself and my potential.”

In the World Championship standings, Bortoleto sits in 14th place after the first eleven rounds. With ten World Championship points, he has already scored five times as many points as his German team-mate, who currently lies in 18th place in the overall standings.

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