Rafael Camara is set to make his Formula 1 debut at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on Sunday, replacing Esteban Ocon in the Haas line-up for the rest of the season.
Who is Rafael Camara?
The 21-year-old Brazilian driver has climbed the ranks through the Ferrari Academy and won the Formula 3 title last year, also earning Rookie of the Year honours. He is currently leading the Formula 2 leaderboard for Invicta Racing.
Ocon's Departure and Camara's Arrival
The French driver has confirmed he will be leaving Haas at the end of the season. Ocon had been replaced by reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, but previous commitments have opened the door for Camara to step in.
Camara, who impressed in his TPC outing in August, will drive alongside Ollie Bearman at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. He has also been confirmed to take on Ocon's seat with Haas for the 2027 season.
Team Statement
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu said: "We have now notified Esteban Ocon that he will not return to a race seat with TGR Haas F1 Team this season. Such decisions are never made lightly, as was the case in Mexico City – but then, as now, we feel this is firmly in the best interests of the team moving forward."
Komatsu added: "The conversations that ultimately unfolded between the team and Esteban remain an internal matter, and we will continue to respect the private nature of closed-door situations. Looking ahead, we’ve chosen Rafael Camara to drive alongside Ollie Bearman at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Having excelled in his TPC outing in August, we know Rafa’s capabilities and we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team this weekend and working with him through his Formula 1 debut driving the VF-26 in Brazil."
The Sao Paulo Grand Prix takes place on Sunday, November 8, with lights out at 5pm on Sky Sports.
