Gabriel Bortoleto Issues Strong Criticism of F1 Media After Setbacks

Gabriel Bortoleto has shared a striking view on the role of media in Formula 1, highlighting it as one of the toughest aspects of his rookie season so far. The 20-year-old Brazilian, who joined the Sauber F1 team after winning the 2023 Formula 2 championship, has made a strong start to life on the grid.

While driving for a team with one of the less competitive cars this year, Bortoleto has still managed to reach Q2 several times, though he is yet to score points. His more experienced team-mate, Nico Hulkenberg, has provided a valuable benchmark as the season progresses.

For Bortoleto, the adjustment to F1 tracks and car performance has been manageable, especially with support from Hulkenberg and the Sauber engineering crew. He pointed out that learning new circuits was less challenging than expected because he could lean on team data and guidance.

However, in recent interviews, Bortoleto suggested that the increased demands of the F1 media environment have been far more complicated than anything he experienced throughout his 15-year motorsport career.

In Formula 2, media duties were minimal. Drivers could focus mainly on racing after arriving at the circuit, spending most of their time on preparation and strategy talks with engineers.

Bortoleto emphasized how much F1 has changed his weekly routine. Every race weekend now features packed schedules of interviews, sponsor obligations, and events with journalists from all over the world.

He spoke about this during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, describing media day as a “shock” compared to what he was used to in the junior categories.

Bortoleto admitted that while these new responsibilities are not inherently negative, they require careful time management. Balancing sponsor appearances and media sessions alongside technical briefings with the team has been an entirely new experience.

He mentioned that from the age of six to just a few months ago, almost every racing weekend was dedicated fully to on-track activities without significant media interruption. Now, in Formula 1, that balance has shifted, demanding new skills and discipline.

Having to adapt to the intense spotlight in Formula 1 has proven one of the steepest learning curves for Bortoleto and likely other rookies as well. The continuous requests from media and partners mean much less down time at the circuit, challenging the focus needed to perform during the race.

As the F1 season continues, Bortoleto is working hard to manage these additional duties while striving for his first points finish.

With 2025 fast approaching, Bortoleto’s journey will be closely watched, especially as he gains more experience with the rigorous demands on and off the track. His remarks shine a light on how Formula 1, beyond its technical and sporting challenges, is also shaped by the global attention it receives.

As Bortoleto continues his rookie campaign, mastering the pressures of the F1 media could prove just as important as pace on race days.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.