An F1 broadcaster has issued a public apology to rookie Gabriel Bortoleto after a commentator said his mum “looked so stupid” when she reacted to his crash in Sao Paulo.
Brazilian rookie Bortoleto vowed to learn from his mistakes and keep fighting after crashing heavily in the sprint and the main race in his first home grand prix.
It was a special occasion for the local hope with his mum, Andrea, and girlfriend, Isabella Bernardini, watching on in the Sauber garage.
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However, when cameras panned to show them after he crashed out of the feature race they appeared understandably worried.
But commentator Franz Tost, the former team principal of the Toro Rosso labelled Bortoleto’s mum “stupid” for her emotional reaction.
Marshals remove the damaged car of Gabriel Bortoleto of Brazil and Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber from the circuit after a crash during the F1 Grand Prix of Brazil at Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace on November 09, 2025 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) Getty
“He’s in the learning phase. The mothers don’t need to look so stupid. It’s perfectly normal,it’s a crash period,” Tost said.
Austrian broadcaster ORF issued an apology over the “unacceptable” statement after backlash.
ORF Apologizes for Inappropriate Comment during Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix Broadcast
Table of Contents
The Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF) has issued a sincere apology for an “unacceptable” and “wholly inappropriate” comment made during live coverage of the Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix. The incident occured during the hectic start phase of the race, following a crash involving Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, and while his mother and family were visible on the broadcast.
Incident Details
During co-commentary, a remark was made that ORF has deemed unacceptable. While the specific comment hasn’t been publicly released, ORF Sport stated they will take “appropriate precautions” to prevent similar incidents in the future. The apology was issued following criticism on social media after viewers found the comment insensitive given the circumstances – Bortoleto had just been involved in a crash and his family was visibly concerned. https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/orf-apologises-for-comment-during-brazilian-gp-coverage/10538691/
Bortoleto’s Race and Condition
Bortoleto, driving for Williams, crashed while attempting an overtake on Alex Albon for 10th place during the sprint race. He also experienced a critically important airborne moment during the main race. Fortunately, Bortoleto reported only minor pain following the incidents. “Obviously, I feel a little bit of pain here or there, but normal pain … so I’m very lucky because I think it could have been much worse,” he said. https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/bortoleto-lucky-after-brazilian-gp-crash/10538689/
future of Bortoleto and williams
Bortoleto is set to race for Williams in the 2024 Formula 1 season. Williams will be rebranded as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber in 2024, and will eventually become the factory Audi team in 2026. https://www.formula1.com/en/news/2023/11/bortoleto-to-race-for-williams-in-2024.html
Key Takeaways:
* ORF has apologized for an inappropriate comment made during the broadcast of the Brazilian Grand Prix.
* The comment was made following a crash involving Gabriel Bortoleto, while his family was visible on screen.
* Bortoleto sustained only minor injuries in the crash.
* Bortoleto will be racing for Williams in the 2024 Formula 1 season, which will eventually become the Audi factory team.
This incident highlights the importance of responsible commentary and sensitivity during live sports broadcasts, particularly when dealing with possibly distressing situations involving athletes and their families. ORF’s swift apology and commitment to preventative measures demonstrate a recognition of this duty.