P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Gabriel Bortoleto is the sole Latin American driver on the F1 grid this year, with Emerson Fittipaldi wanting to see a bigger presence from the region.
F1 legend Emerson Fittipaldi has issued a warning to European drivers about the resurgence of Latin American drivers in Formula 1. Franco Colapinto, who impressed at Williams last season, has been signed by Alpine as the third and reserve driver on a long-term contract. Fittipaldi believes that the success of drivers like Colapinto and Sergio Perez is a positive sign for Latin American representation in F1. The Brazilian icon hopes to see more Latin American drivers in the next few years, but jokingly cautioned European drivers to be prepared. Meanwhile, reigning F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto has joined Stake F1 and will be part of the Audi team in 2026 under the new power unit regulations. Fittipaldi is thrilled about Bortoleto’s entry into F1 and anticipates Sauber’s improvement in the upcoming seasons.
