Gabriel Bortoleto Escapes Unharmed After Dramatic Crash at Sao Paulo Sprint Race
In a heart-stopping moment during the final lap of the Sao Paulo sprint race, Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto emerged unscathed after a high-speed crash that briefly lifted his Sauber off the ground. The incident occurred while Bortoleto was attempting to overtake Williams driver Alex Albon in challenging damp conditions, resulting in his car striking the barriers and causing significant damage.
As Bortoleto sought to find space on the outside line, he quickly lost grip on the slippery track. His car collided with the barrier on the right side before careening across the track and making heavy contact with the opposite wall, momentarily becoming airborne. Thankfully, despite the severity of the crash, Bortoleto managed to exit the vehicle without assistance and appeared alert. He was promptly taken to the circuit medical center for precautionary checks, where it was confirmed he had no injuries. His family, who were in the grandstands cheering him on during his home race, were quickly notified of his safety.
Following the race, Sauber released a statement expressing their relief over Bortoleto’s condition and commending the swift response of race officials. “After precautionary checks at the circuit’s Medical Centre, we are pleased to report that Gabriel Bortoleto is okay and uninjured,” the team stated. They also thanked the circuit marshals, Formula 1 officials, and medical staff for their exceptional care. The focus now shifts to repairing the damaged chassis ahead of the afternoon qualifying session.
Albon, who narrowly avoided the crash, shared his concern for Bortoleto. “I just hope he’s OK. These walls around Sao Paulo, especially at Turn 1, can be really tough. I feel for him and hope he’s alright,” he remarked.
Bortoleto, in his debut Formula 1 season, currently sits 19th in the drivers’ standings with 19 points, just two points behind Pierre Gasly of Alpine and 22 points behind his Sauber teammate Nico Hülkenberg. The sprint race was ultimately won by Lando Norris, who finished ahead of Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, while Max Verstappen secured fourth place. Unfortunately, Oscar Piastri retired early in the race after a spin, missing out on valuable points.
As the team gears up for repairs and the upcoming qualifying session, fans and fellow drivers alike are relieved to see Bortoleto safe and ready to continue his journey in Formula 1.
