Gabriel Bortoleto provided one of the most dramatic moments on the opening lap of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, skillfully controlling his Audi following a sudden spin on the technical Circuit Zandvoort.
Starting from 9th on the grid after an impressive qualifying performance on Saturday, the Brazilian found himself caught in tight mid-pack traffic through the opening sequence of corners. As the field shuffled for position, Bortoleto lost rear traction and snapped into a spin.
Gabriel Bortoleto avoided the barriers after spinning on Lap 1 at Zandvoort (Photo: Audi F1 Team)
Showing remarkable reflexes behind the wheel, Bortoleto avoided heavy contact with both the surrounding barriers and the cars trailing closely behind. After coming to a complete stop facing the wrong way, he safely turned the Audi around and rejoined the track.
Although the incident dropped him toward the rear of the running order, Bortoleto kept the car intact and resumed his race prior to the session being suspended for Max Verstappen’s lap 1 accident.
Formula 1 action continues at Zandvoort during the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all track activities live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all paddock updates on our news page.
