Rookie Bortoleto’s Intense Battle with Mentor Alonso at Austrian GP

Gabriel Bortoleto marked a historic moment at the Austrian GP by scoring his first Formula 1 points after an intense battle against his mentor — Fernando Alonso.

The 20-year-old rookie, managed by Alonso’s A14 company, showed impressive skills finishing in eighth position. The battle between student and teacher unfolded intensely at speeds exceeding 200 mph.

“It was fun because he raced very hard. Luckily we didn’t crash, because then I probably wouldn’t be able to get home,” said Bortoleto, who usually travels on Alonso’s private jet.

Alonso admitted using all his experience to keep Bortoleto at bay — including tactics of feinting moves to overtake Lando Norris who had lapped them.

Sauber recorded a positive result with double points finish after Nico Hulkenberg secured ninth position. This marks significant progress for the team that will be rebranded as Audi in 2026.

“I’m very happy for him. You could see it coming. I know how he works and drives,” praised Hulkenberg for his rookie teammate.