Gabriel Bortoleto shines with point in Mexico GP after starting P16

Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto earned a point in the Mexico GP, held last Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Starting from 16th place after a disappointing qualifying, the Sauber driver executed a recovery race marked by a bold strategy and aggressive start. The result secured 10th place, adding another point to his Formula 1 season. The performance was celebrated as a strategic achievement on a challenging circuit.

The poor qualifying, where Bortoleto finished P16, contrasted with his strong pace in free practice, which suggested potential for Q3. The race recovery was driven by Sauber’s tactical decisions and the driver’s skill in overtaking. He highlighted the clean battle with Frenchman Isack Hadjar as a pivotal moment.

• Well-managed tire strategy ensured consistent pace.
• Overtaking Hadjar was planned with calculated risk.
• Aggressive start gained positions early in the race.

Bortoleto now looks to the Brazil GP in Interlagos next weekend, optimistic for an even better result in front of his home crowd.

Hear from Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, Nico & Gabi, following our point score in Mexico.

🔗Read more: https://t.co/LEmUGfHw9g#MexicoGP pic.twitter.com/tkCN3JU2cF

— Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber (@stakef1team_ks) October 27, 2025

Strategy makes the difference

The Mexico race demanded adaptation to the circuit’s high-altitude conditions, which affect car performance. Sauber opted for an aggressive start strategy, leveraging initial tire grip to gain positions.
The pace management allowed Bortoleto to maintain consistency, despite a less competitive car compared to the leaders. The tire compound choice was key to advancing on the track.

Clean battle with Hadjar

The overtake on Isack Hadjar was one of the race’s most intense moments. Bortoleto attempted to pass him multiple times, taking calculated risks to secure the position. The clean maneuver was praised by the Brazilian, who noted the fair conduct of his rival. The battle boosted Bortoleto’s confidence, with Sauber’s telemetry work ensuring the car suited the track’s conditions.

Free practice performance

In free practice, Bortoleto showed competitive pace, similar to Sauber’s European season form. Expectations were high for a top-10 qualifying, but a lack of tire grip in Q2 hindered the result. The driver expressed frustration with Saturday’s session but highlighted Sunday’s recovery as proof of the team’s capability. The Mexico point was Bortoleto’s first in high-altitude circuits. The gained confidence will be crucial for the next GP.

Expectations for Interlagos

Bortoleto is optimistic for the Brazil GP, which he considers the best race of the year. The Brazilian crowd in Interlagos is expected to boost the driver, who aims for a standout result. The technical circuit, with long straights and demanding corners, suits Bortoleto’s aggressive driving style. Sauber plans car adjustments to maximize performance. The event, set for early November, heightens the team’s preparations. The Brazilian hopes to capitalize on local support to climb the grid.

Preparation for Brazil

The Brazil GP offers Bortoleto a chance to show progress. He emphasized maintaining the race pace seen in Mexico. Sauber will focus on aerodynamic tweaks for Interlagos, where straight-line speed is vital.

Season resilience

Despite 2025’s challenges, Bortoleto has shown consistency in recovery races. The Mexico point underscores his skill on demanding tracks, where strategy is as critical as speed. The season, with ups and downs for Sauber, still offers growth opportunities. The Brazilian remains a promising talent in Formula 1, with potential for better results soon.