Lewis Hamilton offers words of support to Bortoleto after setback in England

Last weekend, during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, young Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto faced frustration after retiring early due to a risky bet on slick tires on a still-wet track. While Sauber celebrated Nico Hülkenberg’s first Formula 1 podium, Bortoleto received an unexpected gesture of support from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Team principal Jonathan Wheatley revealed that Hamilton approached the rookie post-race to offer words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes. The incident, which took place on July 6, 2025, highlights the camaraderie in the paddock and the attention on the emerging talent of the Brazilian, in his debut season in the category.

The DNF contrasted with Sauber’s celebrations, as Hülkenberg shone. Despite the setback, Bortoleto showed team spirit by congratulating his teammate. The brief conversation with Hamilton was a significant moment for the 20-year-old, who already boasts Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles in his resume.

• Sauber’s first podium: Hülkenberg secured third place, a milestone for the team.
• Strategic error: The choice of slick tires in the rain cost Bortoleto the race.
• Team support: Sauber reinforced confidence in the Brazilian’s learning process.

Bortoleto’s rookie season has been closely watched, especially given his rapid rise in motorsport. The British GP, however, brought tough lessons but also moments of support that could shape his career.

Paddock solidarity
Lewis Hamilton, with nearly two decades in Formula 1, is known for gestures beyond the track. His initiative to seek out Bortoleto post-race was highlighted by Wheatley as an example of leadership. The Sauber boss noted that the Briton, moved by the Brazilian’s DNF, offered motivational words, reminding him that mistakes are part of the learning curve, especially for a debutant.

The gesture resonated. For a driver like Bortoleto, facing the pressure of competing in such a demanding series, the support of a figure like Hamilton carries symbolic weight. The conversation took place in the pits, right after the race, during a moment of reflection for the Brazilian.

Sauber, meanwhile, also reaffirmed its trust in the driver. Wheatley praised Bortoleto’s work ethic, describing him as someone who absorbs information from all sources. For the team, the episode is a growth opportunity, not a setback.

Lessons from Silverstone
The British GP was a test of resilience for Bortoleto. Opting for slick tires while the track was still damp was a gamble that didn’t pay off. The strategy, though bold, reflected the audacity of a first-year driver but also exposed his inexperience in handling such changeable conditions.

Wheatley, however, downplayed the mistake. He emphasized that observing Hülkenberg’s performance during the race was a practical lesson for Bortoleto. The German, with years of experience, made sound decisions and stayed calm, securing the podium. For the Brazilian, listening to his teammate’s radio communications offered real-time learning.

The Sauber boss also noted Bortoleto’s ability to bounce back quickly. Even after the DNF, the driver took part in Pirelli tire tests for the 2026 season alongside names like Felipe Drugovich, showing commitment to the team’s development.

A rookie’s journey
Gabriel Bortoleto entered Formula 1 in 2025 with an impressive resume. Champion of Formula 3 in 2023 and Formula 2 in 2024, the Brazilian is seen as one of the biggest prospects in national motorsport. His debut with Sauber, however, has brought the expected challenges for a 20-year-old driver.

The season has been a rollercoaster. Bortoleto has shown speed and talent but also faced tough moments, like the Silverstone DNF. His ability to learn from setbacks, however, sets him apart. Wheatley noted that the Brazilian asks the right questions and constantly seeks improvement.

• Previous titles: Formula 3 champion (2023) and Formula 2 champion (2024).
• F1 debut: First season with Sauber in 2025.
• Pirelli tests: Participation in sessions for 2026 tire development.
• Experienced teammate: Hülkenberg as a reference within the team.

Next steps in the season
Formula 1 now gears up for the Belgian Grand Prix, scheduled for July 25-27 at Spa-Francorchamps. For Bortoleto, the race is a chance to move past the Silverstone setback. The Belgian track, known for its challenging corners and unpredictable weather, will be another test for the Brazilian.

Sauber, buoyed by Hülkenberg’s podium, aims to maintain its momentum. The team has been investing in car development and driver integration, with Bortoleto playing a central role in the squad’s future.

The support he received, from both the team and Hamilton, serves as fuel for the young driver. The 2025 season still holds many races, and Bortoleto has the opportunity to show why he’s considered one of Brazil’s biggest bets in Formula 1.

Support beyond the track
Hamilton’s gesture was not an isolated act. Despite its competitiveness, Formula 1 often reveals moments of camaraderie. For Bortoleto, receiving support from a seven-time world champion reinforces the importance of staying humble and open to learning.

Sauber has also played a key role in the driver’s development. The team, undergoing a restructuring process, sees Bortoleto as a talent to be polished. The confidence placed in the Brazilian is evident in Wheatley’s words, who highlighted his dedication and ability to absorb knowledge.

Tests for the future
In addition to the Silverstone race, Bortoleto took part in Pirelli tire tests for the 2026 season, held in the days following the British GP. The sessions, which also featured drivers like Lance Stroll and Felipe Drugovich, are part of efforts to develop more durable and adaptable compounds for the category’s new regulations.

The Brazilian completed valuable laps, providing critical data for Pirelli and Sauber. His involvement in the tests underscores the team’s trust in his potential, even after a tough weekend.

Sauber’s 2025 landscape
The 2025 season has been a turning point for Sauber. Hülkenberg’s Silverstone podium was the team’s first in years, signaling significant progress. The outfit, set to rebrand as Audi in 2026, is in a transition phase, with investments in infrastructure and talent.

Bortoleto, as part of this project, is viewed as a key piece for the future. His youth and talent complement Hülkenberg’s experience, forming a balanced driver lineup. The team hopes the Brazilian continues to evolve, especially in challenging races like Spa-Francorchamps.

Preparation for Spa-Francorchamps
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit, with its long straights and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, demands precision and courage. For Bortoleto, the race will be a chance to apply the lessons learned at Silverstone. Sauber, meanwhile, plans to refine its strategy to avoid mistakes like the tire choice in England.

The team is also monitoring weather conditions, which often play a decisive role in Belgium. For the Brazilian, a strong performance at Spa could be a defining moment in his rookie season.