Alonso praises ‘outstanding’ Bortoleto after battle in Austria

Fernando Alonso lauded rookie Gabriel Bortoleto following their intense duel at the Austrian Grand Prix, where Bortoleto secured his maiden F1 points. Despite the young Brazilian, part of Alonso's management program, having significantly fresher tires on a unique one-stop strategy, the veteran Spaniard expertly defended his seventh position. Alonso admitted a touch of luck, as race-winner Lando Norris's blue flags inadvertently shortened their race by a lap, preventing Bortoleto from a final attack. Beyond his own strong finish, Alonso expressed immense pride in Bortoleto's achievement, highlighting the significance of a driver's first F1 points. The result also saw Aston Martin close the gap to Haas in the constructors' standings.