Gabriel Bortoleto cannot wait to drive an F1 car on his ‘favorite’ track this week in Imola

Sauber rookie driver Gabriel Bortoleto cannot wait for this week’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix

Shortly after his retirement from the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, Sauber rookie driver Gabriel Bortoleto had his eyes set on the next race on the calendar.

With good reason.

This week, the grid heads to Imola for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, as the series kicks off the European portion of the calendar. During the 2024 F2 season, Bortoleto qualified in pole position at Imola, and finished second in the F2 Feature race.

Speaking on that Sunday in Miami, Bortoleto outlined why he is looking ahead to this week, starting with the fact that it is his favorite circuit.

“Why is [Imola] my favorite? Because I love racing the track,” said Bortoleto to the media, including SB Nation, in Miami.

“I’ve done great results in my career there, you know, I [qualified on pole] there I think twice, and then I’ve always been on the podium in all the series I’ve done.”

Bortoleto elaborated on his fondness for Imola in Sauber’s preview of this week’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

“Imola is a track I have raced on before in other categories, but stepping up to Formula One is a whole different thing,” said Bortoleto. “It is definitely one of my favorite tracks: it has a great flow, and the challenge is something I enjoy. It is a place that demands your full attention – every corner counts.

As for what the rookie driver is hoping for, Bortoleto is aiming for a “decent result” for Sauber this week.

“This weekend, I am focused on building on our learnings, staying sharp, and finding those extra tenths. I am ready to push hard and get a decent result for the team.”

SB Nation will have full coverage of the F1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this week, so come back early and often!