F1 rookie backed to ‘threaten’ experienced team-mate

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Gabriel Bortoleto can "threaten" the experienced Nico Hulkenberg at Stake Sauber next season. 

The newly-crowned Formula 2 champion is one of six rookies on next year's grid, with Bortoleto being the first Brazilian in F1 since Pietro Fittipaldi competed in two races in 2020. 

Of the six 2025 rookies, three of them, including Bortoleto, have never started a grand prix. Rookies are currently a big talking point, following the mixed success of Franco Colapinto. 

Williams promoted Colapinto after the Dutch Grand Prix to replace Logan Sargeant, with the Argentine having been an immediate hit. 

He was quickly linked with the likes of Alpine and Red Bull, before a series of heavy crashes saw interest cool. Colapinto does not have a seat on next season's grid.

Herbert does not expect Bortoleto to suffer the same challenges as Colapinto, with the Briton being confident that the Brazilian will be a handful for the experienced Hulkenberg.

Should Bortoleto perform as strongly as Herbert is expecting, then the FIA steward is certain it will put the driver in an excellent position when the team becomes Audi in 2026.

“Franco Colapinto has been a star who shone brightly but who’s suffered because of the crashes," Herbert told Coin Poker. "These things are noticed. Suddenly a question mark appears. 

"There was a great entry to F1 when people said, ‘Wow.’ But Gabriel Bortoleto is one to watch. He has done very well in F2. 

"And he seems to have this wonderful ability to get the best out of the car and himself in all scenarios. 

"He can be a threat to Nico Hulkenberg, which will only help his status within the team when it turns into Audi. I am looking forward to that battle.”