Formula 1 rookie Gabriel Bortoleto has been declared 'ok and uninjured' after surviving a horrifying high-speed crash during the Sao Paulo sprint race on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
Chaotic Sprint Race at Interlagos
The sprint race at the Brazilian Grand Prix was dominated by challenging, damp conditions at the Interlagos circuit, which caused significant problems for the entire grid. Lando Norris managed to clinch victory, extending his championship lead over teammate Oscar Piastri to nine points after Piastri himself crashed out. The chaos continued as driver Franco Colapinto also spun off at the same corner just moments later.
The Terrifying Final Lap Incident
The most dramatic moment occurred on the final lap. Hometown hero Gabriel Bortoleto, in his rookie F1 season, attempted an overtake on Alex Albon at the first corner. His Sauber car suddenly hit a wet patch, causing it to snap violently and smash into the pit wall at top speed before skidding back across the track.
The impact was so severe that the car was launched into the air, flying into the barriers. The vehicle was completely destroyed, with the steering wheel detaching and debris scattering across the circuit. The sheer ferocity of the shunt left commentators, fellow drivers, and fans in the grandstands in a state of shock.
A Miraculous Escape and Team Update
In a remarkable and hugely relieving turn of events, the 21-year-old Brazilian was quickly on the radio to reassure his team that he was 'ok'. He was able to get out of the wreckage unaided and into the medical car. Bortoleto was taken to the circuit's Medical Centre for precautionary checks.
Less than an hour after the terrifying incident, he was seen sprinting down the pit-lane, appearing perfectly fine. Providing an official update over an hour post-crash, the Sauber team stated: 'Following precautionary checks at the circuit’s Medical Centre, we are pleased to report that Gabriel Bortoleto is ok and uninjured.'
The team extended its thanks to the circuit marshals, F1, the FIA, and the Medical Centre staff for their swift and professional response. Sauber confirmed their focus would now shift to preparing the cars for the afternoon's qualifying session, though it remains uncertain if Bortoleto's car can be repaired in time.
