Gabriel Bortoleto hopes Audi’s car will be as quick on track as it is striking when the team races at the São Paulo Grand Prix this weekend. Audi presented the special livery at a private event for guests at Casa Fasano.
The design was developed by Adidas, the team’s sponsor, for the São Paulo circuit. It features outlines of the state of São Paulo in different shades of green as a tribute to the region.
Bortoleto, who races with number 5, will also wear a special white helmet decorated with graffiti-style details and a tribute to Ayrton Senna. The tribute marks 35 years since Senna’s 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix victory at Interlagos. Despite a gearbox problem that left the car stuck in sixth gear, the three-time champion won in front of the home crowd.
“The car is beautiful, but I hope it’s as fast as it is beautiful, because that’s what matters most,” Bortoleto said.
The Brazilian also said he was pleased to race at home again, while acknowledging the added expectations. He praised the support he receives from Brazilian fans and said he was looking forward to driving in front of them.
His teammate, Germany’s Nico Hülkenberg, said Interlagos has a special place in his career. He recalled both positive and difficult moments at the circuit and said he enjoys the energy, culture and people of Latin America.
Sources: Folha Esporte.