Emerson Fittipaldi names surprising F1 rookie standout in 2025

19:35, 12 Aug

Updated: 20:14, 12 Aug

byLuke-John Buckle

Formula 1 has had a multitude of rookies descend on the grid this season with varying levels of success. The two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi explained which one has surprised him.

Formula 1 has seen its new rookies deliver varying results, with Jack Doohan's stuttering start at Alpine brought to a halt after just six races.

Talking to a selected group of media including GPblog, team representative Bradley Lord also assessed Kimi Antonelli's debut, saying: "We knew the season would have ups and downs. The more you can give a rookie driver a car that they can be confident in, that is predictable, where they can access the performance, the easier that process will be. That's where we have fallen down the second quarter of the season. Hopefully can find a better direction as we go forward," he said.

Emerson Fittipaldi explained via motorsport.com that Sauber driver Gabriel Bortoleto has surprised him this season.

The Brazilian said: "I think everybody is surprised, to be honest. You know, the last race was amazing, if you see where he was running with that Sauber. I think he did a fantastic performance, in both qualifying and the race. It’s very impressive to see."

Gabriel Bortoleto

Bortoleto is 'at the next level now' in F1

“I know him since he started racing in karting. He has always been a very good driver, but I think in Formula 1, he's at the next level now.

“And also, we shouldn't forget Nico Hulkenberg. He is very quick; I think it helps Gabriel a lot to have a good reference.”

The rookie enjoyed a superb junior career as he won the FIA F3 and Formula 2 titles back-to-back, with both championships coming in his rookie year.

Bortoleto is managed by two-time world champion Fernando Alonso and has scored points three times in the last four races.

The Sauber driver also went into the summer break on good form after a sixth-place finish last time out at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Bortoleto drove well in Hungary to achieve a career-high P6 finish for Sauber, which has put the Swiss team just one point behind Aston Martin in their battle for sixth in the Constructors' Championship.