P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Fernando Alonso does not want Gabriel Bortoleto to take a damaging “shortcut” en route to F1, but does not foresee his McLaren links being a barrier to entry.
Fernando Alonso believes Gabriel Bortoleto, the F2 championship leader, should be given time to develop before making the jump to F1, expressing that he could be in the running for the Stake drive alongside Nico Hulkenberg. Bortoleto, a member of McLaren’s driver academy under Alonso’s guidance, is currently leading the F2 standings as a rookie. Alonso emphasizes the importance of not rushing Bortoleto’s progression to F1 to prevent compromising his talent development, stressing the need for the right timing and environment. Although Valtteri Bottas is expected to sign with Stake for 2025, Bortoleto is still seen as a viable option by Alonso and McLaren, with the possibility of securing an F1 seat elsewhere if needed. Alonso maintains that Bortoleto’s potential should not be underestimated and that decisions regarding his future in F1 are yet to be finalized.
