Nov.10 (GMM) Gabriel Bortoleto escaped unhurt from what Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport described as “the worst Formula 1 crash in years” after a terrifying 339kph accident that marred his first home Brazilian GP.
On the final lap of Saturday’s sprint, the 20-year-old Sauber rookie lost control at the end of the main straight, his car snapping violently left before slamming into both pit and tyre walls with forces of up to 57g.
Miraculously, Bortoleto climbed out unaided – bruised but unharmed.
“I wanted to surprise Albon, but I still had DRS active when I hit a bump,” he explained. “Suddenly the car was gone. I was lucky to escape without damage.”
Team boss Jonathan Wheatley said the impact “was like a bomb going off”, praising the FIA’s safety standards: “Luckily, Gabriel hit the wall with two different parts of the car. The regulations have saved him.”
Incredibly, Sauber’s mechanics came close to a miracle rebuild in time for qualifying. They assembled a completely new chassis, starting the engine just as Q1 ended. “We missed qualifying by minutes,” Wheatley said, after the garage applauded the exhausted crew.
Audi project leader Mattia Binotto revealed that the team’s modular setup allowed such a rapid rebuild. “We were ready for all eventualities,” he said. “But the late-season crash strains our spare-parts situation.
“We don’t want to be forced to produce new parts again.”
Bortoleto, still sore but determined, returned for Sunday’s race – only to crash again early on. It capped a nightmare home debut that left him visibly emotional.
Asked if the pressure of racing at home played a part, he paused. “That’s actually not a bad question,” he said. “In the junior series I was used to fighting at the top. Now our car isn’t there, so I’m learning and trying things.
“It’s happened to everyone – just look at the beginning of Max Verstappen’s career. Life goes on, and I hope I learn from what happened.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES