Gabriel Bortoleto drives car #5 for Audi in 2026, having won the 2023 FIA Formula 3 and 2024 FIA Formula 2 championships in back-to-back seasons. Born in Sao Paulo on October 31, 2004, he follows Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet, and Emerson Fittipaldi as the latest Brazilian talent to reach Formula 1.
Bortoleto’s back-to-back F3 and F2 titles mirror Oscar Piastri’s feat from 2020-2021, placing him in elite company among modern junior category graduates. His F2 championship was won with consistent scoring and decisive victories, demonstrating the racecraft and composure needed to succeed at the highest level. McLaren initially held his contract before he was released to join Audi’s works programme.
For 2026, Bortoleto enters his second season with Audi as the team continues its transformation from Sauber into a full manufacturer operation. Audi’s arrival means new power units, new infrastructure, and a long-term vision that extends beyond initial results. Bortoleto’s task is to develop alongside the team, with the understanding that his best seasons should come as the project matures.
Bortoleto’s driving is characterized by his commitment through high-speed corners and an ability to find grip where others struggle. His Brazilian heritage adds enormous passion from a fanbase that has been underrepresented on the F1 grid in recent years. His partnership with the experienced Nico Hulkenberg provides a strong learning environment for a driver still in the early stages of his F1 career.
Brazilian fans can look forward to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos in November, with a 14:00 BRT start at the circuit where Senna became a legend. For the European races, most start between 09:00 and 10:00 BRT, making the season accessible for dedicated early risers. Check Brazil time for all timezone conversions.
At 21, Bortoleto has the junior category pedigree and the long-term manufacturer backing to build a significant F1 career. The 2026 season with Audi is the foundation of a project designed to peak in the years ahead, and his development trajectory will be watched closely by the Brazilian motorsport community.