Ecclestone claims Bortoleto is worth his weight in gold.

      "Every time, the Brazilian contributed valuable points for Hinwil."

      Gabriel Bortoleto's ascent in Formula 1 continued in Hungary, as the Sauber newcomer once more outqualified and outperformed Nico Hulkenberg. The 2024 Formula 2 champion started in seventh place and finished sixth at the Hungaroring - both represent career bests - while Hulkenberg qualified and ended up in 13th. This marks the third occasion in the last four races that Bortoleto began from the top ten. Veteran F1 journalist Roger Benoit remarked on Sunday: "Who would have imagined just a month ago that the 2024 Formula 2 champion would have such a sudden breakthrough? For the third time in four races, Bortoleto started within the top ten - unlike teammate Hulkenberg, who never did." In his column for Blick, he stated: "And each time, the Brazilian delivered valuable points for Hinwil." Bortoleto is managed by Fernando Alonso’s A14 Management, and after the Hungarian GP, Alonso expressed his thoughts: "He’s the best rookie of his generation. If he were English or from another country and finished sixth for Sauber, he’d be on the front page of every newspaper." Both Bortoleto and Hulkenberg are already confirmed for Audi’s 2026 F1 team, but recent performances seem to favor the Brazilian. Although there is a slight gap in season-long qualifying and race statistics, Bortoleto has arguably emerged as Sauber’s more effective asset in the latest rounds. Even former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone, who resides on a large farm in Brazil, commented from the paddock in Hungary, sharing his personal involvement in Bortoleto’s entry into F1. "I’m pleased we were able to assist the Bortoleto family with their entry into Formula 1," said the 94-year-old. "The boy is worth his weight in gold."