Formula 1 returns to the legendary Interlagos circuit this weekend for the São Paulo Grand Prix, and it will be a special one for Brazilian fans. For the first time since 2017, when Felipe Massa took part in his farewell race, Brazil will have its own driver on the grid. That honour belongs to Gabriel Bortoleto, the 21-year-old Sauber driver making his first appearance in front of his home crowd in Formula 1.

Bortoleto’s rookie season has been widely regarded as a successful one. Despite sitting 19th in the drivers’ standings, the lowest among those who have contested the full season, he has earned praise for his steady progress, maturity, and the way he has adapted to the challenges of Formula 1.

“Growing up in São Paulo, I always dreamed of racing at Interlagos, and to do it as a Formula One driver is something I am really looking forward to, it almost feels unreal,” said Bortoleto in the team’s press release prior to the race weekend at Interlagos. “All the work my family and I put in over the years has paid off, and I can't wait to finally head out on track in front of my people.”

The reigning Formula 2 champion admits there’s extra pressure when racing at home, but he insists his approach remains unchanged. “It doesn’t change my focus for the weekend: I'm fully geared up for the race and delivering performance. It’s another Sprint, which means less time to get everything in the best possible shape. We’ve had a couple of good results as a team recently, so the goal is to keep working, make the most of every opportunity, and hopefully score another top ten here at home.”

For a country that has produced legends such as Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet and Emerson Fittipaldi, Bortoleto’s arrival in Formula 1 is a major moment. The stands at Interlagos are expected to be filled with yellow and green as fans rally behind their new local hero.

This weekend, Bortoleto will not just be chasing points; he will also be continuing Brazil’s proud racing legacy on one of the most iconic circuits in the world.