Gabriel Bortoleto backs Verstappen on 2026 F1 rules after Dutch GP spin

Gabriel Bortoleto backed Max Verstappen's criticism of Formula 1's 2026 regulations after the Dutch Grand Prix. The Audi driver said adaptation matters more than driving style in the new era, echoing Verstappen's view that the rules feel like a jungle. He made the comments despite a difficult race at Zandvoort where he spun on lap one.

How did Gabriel Bortoleto avoid a crash with Nico Hulkenberg at Zandvoort?

Nico Hulkenberg avoided a huge crash with his Audi team-mate Gabriel Bortoleto at the Dutch Grand Prix. Bortoleto spun in front of him at the final banked corner in damp conditions after reacting to Max Verstappen's crash ahead. Hulkenberg swerved late to avoid T-boning the Brazilian, who completed a 360-degree spin and ended up briefly stationary. Hulkenberg said he reacted instinctively, choosing a side as he waited to see if Bortoleto would slide up or down the wet track.

What was Gabriel Bortoleto's result at the Dutch GP?

Hulkenberg went on to score four points for Audi by finishing eighth. Bortoleto came home 13th in the final order. Hulkenberg said the result was super important for the team and championship, giving everyone a lift and confirming they are in the right direction. Bortoleto said he felt something after seeing big smoke from Verstappen's crash, made a small steering reaction, then lost the car and spun.

What did Gabriel Bortoleto say about 2026 F1 driving styles?

Gabriel Bortoleto told media including GPBlog that he hasn't actually changed his driving style at all. He realises he only drove for a year in the previous generation of Formula 1 cars and therefore has little basis for comparison with drivers like Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton. However, he stands by his point that driving styles matter less and there is more need for adaptation this year.

What did Max Verstappen say about Gabriel Bortoleto's F1 2026 comments?

Max Verstappen was quick to jump on another critique of the 2026 rules. When Bortoleto's words were put to him, Verstappen responded: 'Who said that? Yes, he's right.' He agreed that driving style must always adapt to what's fastest, saying at Spa he would lose half a second driving his usual way. Verstappen added that the current era feels like a jungle and that the ability to adapt is incredibly important across all racing categories.

• Gabriel Bortoleto finished 13th at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix for Audi
• Nico Hulkenberg avoided a collision with Bortoleto after his lap-one spin at Zandvoort
• Bortoleto and Verstappen agree 2026 F1 rules demand more adaptation than before
• Hulkenberg scored four points for Audi with an eighth-place finish at Zandvoort