Gabriel Bortoleto at Kick Sauber

Gabriel Bortoleto's arrival at Kick Sauber for the 2025 season marks a pivotal moment, positioning him as a foundational talent for Audi's ambitious entry into Formula 1. This partnership is less about immediate results with the current Sauber-run outfit and more about a strategic long-term investment by the German marque, aiming to build a championship-contending team from the ground up with fresh talent.

How it began

Bortoleto's path to Formula 1 was solidified by his dominant 2023 FIA Formula 3 Championship victory, followed by a strong rookie season in Formula 2. As a McLaren junior driver, his progression was closely watched, showcasing a consistent ability to adapt and perform under pressure. His signing with Kick Sauber, ahead of its full transition to the Audi works team in 2026, was a clear statement of intent from the Ingolstadt manufacturer. Audi sought a young, adaptable driver with a proven track record in the junior categories, someone who could grow with the team and shape its future identity. This move highlighted a shift in strategy for some teams, investing in emerging talent rather than solely relying on established names, a similar trajectory seen with drivers like Oscar Piastri at McLaren who quickly made an impact after a successful junior career.

The partnership's character

The Bortoleto-Kick Sauber (soon-to-be-Audi) partnership is defined by its forward-looking nature. For Bortoleto, it represents a significant opportunity to establish himself at the pinnacle of motorsport, free from the immediate pressures of a top-tier team, yet with the backing of a major manufacturer. For Audi, it's about cultivating a driver who can provide crucial feedback during the development of their new power unit and chassis. The initial 2025 season will likely be a transitional period, with the team still operating under the Kick Sauber banner and utilizing Ferrari power units. This year will be vital for Bortoleto to integrate with the team's engineering culture and gain invaluable F1 experience, preparing for the full Audi works entry. The emphasis will be on learning, data gathering, and laying the groundwork for future competitiveness, rather than chasing podiums immediately.

Key chapter in the season

The 2025 season will be a critical chapter, not just for Bortoleto, but for the entire Kick Sauber operation as it prepares for its Audi transformation. Every race will serve as a learning exercise, with the team likely focusing on optimizing its processes and understanding the nuances of the current car while simultaneously developing the 2026 Audi machine. Bortoleto's role will extend beyond pure driving; he will be instrumental in providing feedback that directly influences the direction of future car development. This kind of foundational role is a unique challenge, distinct from drivers joining established front-running teams like who step into already optimized machinery. His performance relative to his teammate and his ability to contribute to the technical feedback loop will be closely scrutinized.