Alonso sees F1 debut for young star as 'a matter of time'

Fernando Alonso has stated it is “a matter of time” before Gabriel Bortoleto receives a full-time promotion to F1.

Bortoleto won last year's Formula 3 championship and is currently second in the Formula 2 drivers' standings with three rounds remaining.

The Brazilian driver, who is part of Alonso's A14 Management programme, has been linked with a Stake drive next year ahead of Audi's F1 arrival in 2026 despite being part of the McLaren junior programme.

Alonso hailed the approach that Bortoleto has taken in his racing career as the 19-year-old continues to be linked with a switch to F1.

“He's an incredible talent and a very humble person as well, which I think that's the biggest thing that we need to work on,” Alonso told media including RacingNews365. 

“He's a hard worker, apart from his talent, and I think that's why in Formula 3 and Formula 2 had this much progress. 

“I think also he's someone that is taking things very seriously as well, which at that age is never a guarantee.

“He won the championship as a rookie in Formula 3, and he's fighting for the championship as a rookie in Formula 2, but without the test of many other rookies. 

“So he's probably the only rookie, rookie on the championship. So this was an amazing achievement so far. 

“Let's see what the future brings. But, you know, it's a matter of time that he gets to F1.”