As the thrilling Formula 2 season approaches its climax, Championship leader Gabriel Bortoleto is preparing for the final two rounds at Lusail. Before he hits the track, we sat down with the talented driver to uncover more about his life both on and off the circuit.
The Invicta Racing star shares insights into his journey, offering a glimpse into his Brazilian roots and what motivates him as an elite athlete.
WHERE DO YOU CONSIDER HOME?
“Home for me is definitely São Paulo, Brazil, the vibrant city that shaped my identity and racing career.”
OUTSIDE OF MOTORSPORT, WHICH ATHLETE DO YOU ADMIRE THE MOST?
“Michael Jordan. He’s an absolute legend, not only for his incredible talent but for dominating his sport and being recognized as the best in basketball history.”
WHO ARE YOU FRIENDS WITH MOST ON THE GRID?
“Haha! Friends is an intense word, right? I get along well with everyone on the grid, but Kush is definitely my closest friend.”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHEAT MEAL?
“KFC. I just love it—it’s delicious! I actually indulge in it quite a bit. Plus, it’s got protein, right?”
Bortoleto leads the Drivers’ Championship heading into the final two rounds of the season.
IF YOU COULD GO BACK TO ANY MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE TO RELIVE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“When I clinched the title in F3, it was an indescribable sensation. I remember getting out of the car and feeling like I was in a daze for just a second before everyone rushed to congratulate me. I hadn’t fully grasped the significance of that achievement until that very moment.”
“As I walked back to the Trident tent and saw my entire family there, I just broke down in tears. I had poured so much effort into the last season, alongside my family’s unwavering support. That moment of joy and overwhelming emotion was unbelievable.”
IF YOU WEREN’T A RACING DRIVER, WHAT WOULD YOU DO AS A JOB?
“It’s tough to imagine anything else, but I would likely pursue something in sim racing. I prefer the excitement of racing in a simulator over driving real cars.”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE OR TV SHOW?
“My favorite movie is Interstellar; it captivates my imagination. As for TV, I can’t get enough of Peaky Blinders.”
WHAT WAS THE LAST SONG YOU LISTENED TO?
“I was driving when I last checked… it was Don’t You Worry Child by Swedish House Mafia.”
The Invicta Racing and McLaren Development Driver is aiming to go back-to-back after winning the F3 title in 2023.
WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST OR MOST EMBARASSING THING YOU’VE DONE?
“Hmm… Probably something silly from my childhood with friends back in Brazil. The typical mischief that kids get into and end up getting in trouble for!”
WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSION?
“Family. They mean the world to me and are my biggest support system.”
WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN?
“Step-by-step, brick-by-brick. It reminds me to take my journey one small victory at a time.”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE YOU’VE BEEN TO AND ONE YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO BUT WOULD LOVE TO GO?
“My favorite place has been Greece, especially Mykonos. One location I dream of visiting is Rio de Janeiro; it’s surprising I’ve never explored it while in Brazil, and I really want to make that happen.”
In so much effort and passion to get to that point, and to share it with my family made it even more special.”
WHAT DRIVES YOUR PASSION FOR RACING?
“For me, it’s the thrill of competition and the desire to improve every time I get behind the wheel. The adrenaline rush when you’re racing at high speeds is unmatched, and knowing that I have the potential to achieve great things keeps me motivated.”
HOW DO YOU PREPARE MENTALLY BEFORE A RACE?
“Mental preparation is crucial. I spend a lot of time visualizing the track and going over my strategies. I also meditate to calm my mind and focus on what I need to accomplish.”
AS THE SEASON COMES TO A CLOSE, WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FINAL RACES?
“I want to maintain my lead in the championship and finish both races strong. It’s important to stay composed and not let the pressure get to me. Ultimately, I want to enjoy the experience and give it my all on the track.”
WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU WANT TO SEND TO YOUR FANS?
“Thank you for your unwavering support throughout the season. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I promise to give my best performance in the final rounds!”
As Gabriel Bortoleto gears up to defend his championship lead, his passion and determination are evident both on and off the track. The final rounds at Lusail promise to be thrilling as he strives to make his mark in motorsport history.
**Interview with Gabriel Bortoleto: Championship Leader in Formula 2**
*As the Formula 2 season nears its climax, we’re excited to chat with championship leader Gabriel Bortoleto. The Invicta Racing star shares insights into his life, both on and off the track, as he prepares for the crucial final rounds at Lusail.*
**Q: Gabriel, you’re currently leading the championship. How does it feel heading into these final races?**
**Gabriel:** It’s an incredible feeling, but also a bit nerve-wracking. I’ve worked really hard to get here, and I know the pressure is on. However, I’m focusing on enjoying the moment and giving it my all on the track.
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**Q: You mentioned earlier that São Paulo is home for you. What does that city mean to you?**
**Gabriel:** São Paulo has shaped my identity not just as a driver but as a person. It’s vibrant, full of energy, and has a unique racing culture that really inspires me.
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**Q: Outside of motorsport, who is an athlete that you admire?**
**Gabriel:** Definitely Michael Jordan. His legacy in basketball is unparalleled, not only for his talent but for how he elevated the sport. I try to apply that same relentless drive to my racing.
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**Q: Moving to a lighter note, what’s your go-to cheat meal?**
**Gabriel:** (laughs) I can’t resist KFC! It’s delicious and, well, it has protein, so it’s justified, right?
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**Q: If you could relive any moment from your career, what would it be?**
**Gabriel:** No doubt, clinching the title in F3. The feeling when I got out of the car, seeing my family, and letting all that emotion pour out was truly unforgettable.
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**Q: What would you do if you weren’t pursuing a career in racing?**
**Gabriel:** That’s tough to imagine, but I’d probably dive into sim racing. There’s something about the excitement of racing in simulators that draws me in.
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**Q: Lastly, what advice do you live by as an elite athlete?**
**Gabriel:** “Step-by-step, brick-by-brick.” It’s a reminder that every small victory builds up to something greater, and that’s how I approach my journey in racing.
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*With the final two rounds approaching, Gabriel Bortoleto is not only focused on securing his title but also staying grounded through the support of his family and friends.*
