Gabriel Bortoleto achieves the first Q3 of his F1 career

Thanks to Gabriel Bortoleto’s 8th position, the Sauber team achieves its best qualifying result since Las Vegas 2023. The young Brazilian didn’t hide his joy and showed a certain relief by mentioning the efforts made to get there. « I am thrilled to have reached Q3 for the first time today. It has been an excellent weekend so far, where everything has gone perfectly. As a team, we have worked tirelessly, testing different setups, learning from successes and failures, and remaining constantly competitive. Since the start of the season, I believe in the potential of this team and its ability to improve, even when we started from a difficult position. »

On the podium in F3, then a winner in F2 here, this circuit seems to bring him luck. But it’s mainly the developments introduced by Sauber this weekend, particularly a new floor, that seem to be bearing fruit.

« Reaching Q3 for the first time, especially on a circuit that holds special significance for me, is a fantastic milestone. It’s a clear sign that all the efforts, patience, and teamwork are paying off. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, but I also know that the job is only half done: we must stay focused before tomorrow to keep our momentum and hope to convert this qualifying result into my first points finish. »

Bortoleto will therefore start tomorrow from the 4th row, with Max Verstappen by his side. His goal is clear: to fight for as many points as possible. I think it will be difficult against Max, he had the yellow flag on his lap and he could have been third or fourth. Kimi is doing a good job, we’ll see in race pace but I think I can fight against him because we’ve been close all weekend.