F1 star risks upsetting Lewis Hamilton with bold opinion before Belgian GP

Formula One ace Gabriel Bortoleto might've risked the wrath of fellow driver Lewis Hamilton just days before the Belgian Grand Prix. The drivers have been earning a well-deserved rest during the summer break, but racing is set to resume at the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps this weekend.

But when Bortoleto arrives in Belgium this week, he could be subject to a stern look from seven-time world champion Hamilton, due to comments the Kick Sauber driver made this week. The 20-year-old was speaking about his relationship with reigning world champion, Max Verstappen, when he made a rather bold claim about the Dutchman.

Ahead of this weekend's race, the youngster said: "Max is a great guy. For me, along with Ayrton Senna, he's the greatest driver of all time. I really admire his way of approaching racing, his way of understanding the sport, his understanding of the car, and the calm with which he approaches everything. He's truly an example for me of how I want to be as a driver."

Hamilton, in particular, his fans, might raise an eyebrow at that statement, given the Brit dominated the Formula One scene for so long. But, Bortoleto might be excused given he and Verstappen boast a long-term friendship.

On his relationship with Verstappen, he continued: "We started playing video games and simulators together more and more. Since then, we've been in touch a lot and he helps me a lot. For example, he helped me a lot on my way to F1 by giving me a lot of advice and recommendations, and talking about me with people in the paddock."

Asked about their first encounter, Bortoleto, who was 12 at the time, said: "Max had just finished his second year in Formula One, and the guys from the CRG team always spoke highly of him. I'd heard a lot about him and was eager to meet him. When he came, I asked him for a photo... He responded very calmly and was very friendly. It's funny to see that photo of us now."

On the track, Verstappen will be hoping for a strong showing in Belgium, given he's gone five races without a victory. The Red Bull ace is already trailing McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the Drivers' Championship standings, meaning he can ill-afford many more slip-ups.

Belgium also marks the first race since former Red Bull head honcho Christian Horner was sacked by the constructor. Horner spent 20 years with the Milton Keynes-based outfit and was the longest-reigning team principal in Formula One.