Steiner reveals dream line-up, pairs Verstappen with stunning rookie

15:54, 01 Nov

Updated: 18:34, 01 Nov

bySamson Ero

Guenther Steiner has named his dream Formula 1 team line-up, combining experience and youth with Max Verstappen alongside Gabriel Bortoleto.

“I would take Max Verstappen for sure.”

- Gunther Steiner

The former Haas F1 team principal, who spoke in an interview with a gambling site, opted for the four-time world champion alongside the Stake F1 team rookie.

He said: “I would take Max Verstappen for sure, and I always said I would take Oscar Piastri before. But I think now I would take one of the rookies, Gabriel Bortoleto. I would take Max and Gabriel.”

Steiner also added details about the structure of his ideal team, stressing that both drivers would need a strong operational base modelled on Mercedes, with Adrian Newey leading car design and himself as team principal.

He explained: “He would need some people around him, but we could find them afterwards. I think that would be quite a successful team, and me as team principal, obviously!”

Max Verstappen and Gabriel Bortoleto during a press conference - Photo: Race Pictures

Bortoleto on his relationship with Verstappen

During the Italian Grand Prix, Bortoleto spoke to GPblog about his relationship with Verstappen. The Brazilian also touched on how the Red Bull driver has been instrumental in his growth as a competitor.

The former Formula 2 champion also revealed how the Dutchman helps him with various track layouts and offers tips related to both real-life and sim racing – something he described as really helpful.

Bortoleto concluded by expressing gratitude for Verstappen’s support throughout his rookie F1 campaign, adding that the 28-year-old had been helping him since his Formula 3 days.