Bortoleto’s Stunning Spielberg Victory: A Masterclass in Formula 2
Gabriel Bortoleto of Invicta Racing delivered a sensational performance at the Spielberg Feature Race, securing his first-ever Formula 2 victory.
In what can only be described as a display of sheer determination and skill, Bortoleto took charge of the race on Lap 4, seizing the lead from AIX Racing’s Joshua Duerksen. It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the McLaren Development driver, however, as he momentarily lost his lead during the mandatory pit stop to Campos Racing’s Josep María Martí.
Yet, where others might falter, Bortoleto’s resilience shone brightly. The Brazilian driver showcased great pace and tactical mastery, overtaking Martí and never looking back. By deftly managing his tyres and maintaining an impressive lead, Bortoleto proved he has what it takes to compete with the best in Formula 2.
Another star of the Spielberg Feature Race was Williams Academy driver Franco Colapinto. Employing an alternative strategy, Colapinto pitted for Supersoft tyres with nine laps remaining. Rejoining the race in P8, the MP Motorsport rookie mounted a thrilling late charge, ultimately finishing second. His gutsy performance adds another chapter to what has already been an intriguing season for the young driver.
Behind Colapinto, chaos reigned within the Campos Racing camp. Isack Hadjar and Martí locked horns in an intense battle for the final podium spot. The tussle generated a fair bit of radio chatter, but it was Hadjar who prevailed, narrowing Championship leader Paul Aron’s lead to just nine points.
Speaking of Aron, the Hitech Pulse-Eight driver ended up fifth after the race concluded. He initially crossed the line in the same position, but a five-second penalty for moving under braking while dueling with Hadjar pushed him to sixth. This allowed Van Amersfoort Racing’s Enzo Fittipaldi to move up to P5.
The rest of the top ten featured a mix of familiar and surprising names. Duerksen clinched seventh, followed by the second Hitech car driven by Amaury Cordeel. The AIX Racing duo of Taylor Barnard and Zak O’Sullivan completed the top ten, with O’Sullivan scoring for ART Grand Prix by securing the final point in P10.
It was a race to forget for pole-sitter Dennis Hauger, who stalled at the start of the Formation Lap. Relegated to the pit lane, Hauger could only manage a P13 finish, rounding off a disappointing weekend for the driver.
With the Red Bull Ring action now wrapped, the Formula 2 grid is gearing up for the next challenge at Silverstone. Round 8 of the season will take place from July 05-07, promising even more thrills and spills in the world of Formula 2 racing.
For those craving a deeper dive into Gabriel Bortoleto’s dominant Spielberg victory and all the drama that unfolded, check out the full report on the FIA Formula 2 official website.