Love in F1: Bortoleto and Isabella Juggle Careers and Passion

Gabriel Bortoleto, a Brazilian Sauber Formula 1 driver, and Isabella Bernardini, a computer science student, form a couple that balances high-performance careers with a solid relationship that began in their teenage years. In 2025, as Bortoleto debuts on the F1 grid, Isabella advances in her studies at the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. Together for five years, they met in São Paulo and have since faced the challenges of distance and demanding careers. Their story, marked by mutual support, gains attention in F1 broadcasts, with Isabella charming fans with her vibrant reactions in the stands. Their relationship, which started in school, blends the speed of the tracks with technological innovation, showing how love and ambition can coexist.

Their journey is an example of how individual dreams can align. While Bortoleto races toward the top of motorsport, Isabella develops artificial intelligence projects aimed at social impact. Their dedication reflects the strength of mutual support amidst intense schedules.

• Early days together: Gabriel and Isabella began dating at 16 in 2020, connecting in São Paulo.
• Distinct careers: He shines on F1 tracks, while she excels in computer science in Europe.
• Support in achievements: Isabella was present for key moments, like Bortoleto’s Formula 3 title in 2023.
• Distance challenges: The couple overcame years of long-distance dating, building trust.

Teenage start strengthens bond

Gabriel Bortoleto and Isabella Bernardini’s relationship began unassumingly in São Paulo, where they attended the same school. Though in the same environment, they only connected years later through mutual friends. Isabella recalls Gabriel, already immersed in karting, skipping classes to race, while she focused on academics. The pilot’s persistence, a trait seen on the track, was key in winning her over. During a strategically planned vacation where Gabriel ensured their families were at the same beach, they talked for hours, marking the start of a lasting relationship.

The early phase was challenging. At 11, Gabriel had moved to Italy for his karting career, while Isabella stayed in Brazil. Despite their youth, they managed the separation, staying in constant contact and building a strong foundation. This early experience of long-distance dating prepared them for the challenges of Bortoleto’s F1 rise and Isabella’s move to the Netherlands.

Bortoleto’s F1 career gains spotlight

At 20, Gabriel Bortoleto is a rising star in Brazilian motorsport. After winning Formula 3 in 2023 and Formula 2 in 2024, he debuted in Formula 1 with Sauber in 2025, ending a seven-year gap without Brazilian drivers on the grid. His rookie season has seen highlights like an eighth-place finish in Austria and sixth in Hungary, competing with names like Fernando Alonso and Max Verstappen. Despite setbacks, such as retirements due to weather or collisions, Bortoleto shows steady progress, earning praise from fans and analysts.

• F1 debut: Bortoleto became the first Brazilian on the grid since Felipe Massa in 2017.
• Notable results: Scored points in races like Austria and Hungary, exceeding expectations.
• Heavyweight mentorship: Managed by Fernando Alonso, Bortoleto benefits from elite guidance.
• Early hurdles: Faced issues with Sauber’s car but remains consistent in qualifying.

Isabella’s presence in the stands adds a special touch. Her spontaneous reactions, caught on F1 cameras, have won over fans, who see her as a reflection of passion for the sport and the pilot. Her appearances at events like the Belgian GP and the 2024 Formula 2 award ceremony highlight her role as a constant supporter in Bortoleto’s career.

Isabella Bernardini shines in tech

While Bortoleto speeds on the track, Isabella Bernardini builds an impressive path in computer science. Studying at the Eindhoven University of Technology, one of Europe’s top institutions, she focuses on innovative projects in artificial intelligence and accessibility. Her current work includes developing an app to assist visually impaired people through audio interfaces, showcasing her commitment to technology for social good.

Isabella emphasizes that her passion for innovation drives her to create solutions that transform lives. Her internship at a Dutch startup demands discipline, organization, and creativity—qualities that mirror Bortoleto’s dedication on the track. A standout student, she finds joy in thinking like a computer to solve complex problems.

• Top-tier education: Studies at Eindhoven University of Technology, a leader in innovation.
• Innovative projects: Works on an accessibility app for the visually impaired.
• Tech focus: Specializes in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
• Balancing act: Juggles studies with trips to support Bortoleto at races.

Life together under F1’s spotlight

Bortoleto’s rise in Formula 1 has brought a new reality for the couple: public exposure. Isabella, who keeps a low profile with a private Instagram account and just over 2,500 followers, had to adjust to the attention from fans and media. Unlike other drivers’ partners who often appear at social events, she prioritizes her academic career, making occasional appearances in Bortoleto’s posts.

The couple handles fame lightly. In interviews, they highlight humor as a relationship cornerstone. Isabella describes Gabriel as “playful” and “high-energy,” while he praises her dedication and emotional balance, which helps him manage F1 pressures. Moments like a thrilling Stock Car ride Bortoleto gave Isabella during the 2025 off-season showcase their bond, even amidst busy schedules.

Long-distance routine demands planning

Maintaining a relationship with Bortoleto traveling for 24 races in 2025 and Isabella immersed in her Dutch studies requires organization and commitment. Europe’s proximity helps them meet during GPs, but balancing careers and personal life is key. Isabella stresses that mutual trust is vital to overcoming distance, while Bortoleto values growing together, supporting each other’s dreams.

• Frequent travel: Isabella attends Bortoleto’s races when possible, like the Belgian GP.
• Constant communication: The couple stays in daily contact, even across continents.
• Mutual support: Gabriel backs Isabella’s studies, while she cheers his victories.
• Special moments: Events like the 2024 F2 awards strengthen their connection.

Their demanding schedules don’t stop them from planning time together. During the F1 off-season, Bortoleto took Isabella for a high-speed lap at the Circuito dos Cristais in Minas Gerais, where her excited screams highlighted their shared joy. These moments reinforce a partnership that thrives beyond tracks and tech labs.

Bright future for the couple

Gabriel and Isabella’s story is one of ambition and mutual support. As Bortoleto aims to solidify his F1 career with Sauber through 2026, Isabella progresses in her studies, planning to impact the tech industry. Starting as teenagers, the couple shows that demanding careers and a strong relationship can coexist,แม though under F1’s bright lights.

Their dedication inspires fans and young people following their paths. Gabriel, with his speed and talent, marks Brazil’s return to motorsport’s elite, while Isabella’s passion for technology highlights innovation’s social potential. Together, they prove that success—on the track or in science—comes from effort, planning, and love.