Source: Official Team Post via X
Haas' F1 2027 Driver Decision Narrows Down to Camara and Doohan
Haas is nearing a decision on its 2027 driver lineup, with Rafa Camara and Jack Doohan as the leading contenders. Team boss Ayao Komatsu is focused on performance over commercial ties as the Singapore Grand Prix approaches.
Haas is on the verge of deciding its 2027 driver lineup, with the shortlist now primarily featuring Rafa Camara and Jack Doohan. The decision is expected shortly after the Singapore Grand Prix. While team boss Ayao Komatsu initially left the door open for all candidates, the focus has narrowed considerably.
Esteban Ocon's departure from Haas has set off a scramble to fill his seat. Although Ollie Bearman is widely anticipated to remain with the team, his spot isn't officially confirmed yet. The initial roster of potential replacements was quite diverse, with names like McLaren reserve Leonardo Fornaroli, Toyota's Ryo Hirakawa, Ferrari-backed Rafa Camara, and Haas' own reserve Jack Doohan in the mix.
Haas conducted a series of tests using their 2025 car to evaluate these candidates, with sessions at Portimão and Jerez. After these tests, insiders suggested the race was primarily between Hirakawa and Camara. However, Jack Doohan's recent performance has revitalized his chances, harking back to his previous F1 experience with Alpine.
This new development has turned what seemed to be a straightforward choice for Camara into a more competitive two-way battle. Meanwhile, Fornaroli's management appears to be steering him towards a World Endurance Championship opportunity instead.
Komatsu is expected to finalize his choice after the Singapore race, potentially announcing it before the United States Grand Prix. He has emphasized that performance will be the primary criterion for selection, rather than commercial incentives or manufacturer affiliations. Camara's Ferrari backing and commercial potential with Brazil's Transpetro might be tempting, but Doohan's return has sparked interest from his own supporters, including some from his former F1 team.
Despite previous expectations of a swift Camara confirmation, Haas has made it clear that no decision has been made yet. Komatsu remains non-committal, reiterating that the team is in a fortunate position with several talented prospects vying for a single seat.
If Haas opts for a Camara/Bearman lineup, it would feature two drivers from Ferrari's Driver Academy. However, despite technical ties with Ferrari, Haas maintains full independence in its driver choices. Komatsu has dismissed concerns about Haas becoming a 'B-team' for Ferrari, noting that any driver choice comes with its own set of assumptions from the public.
Komatsu's humor was evident when addressing potential narratives around a Doohan selection: "Jack is our reserve driver, so there’s no downside, right? What can you write? Would you say that it’s the amazing and legendary Mick Doohan’s son, that’s why we took him?"
As Haas gears up for a decision, the stakes are high, but the team seems committed to ensuring that the best driver for the seat is chosen, regardless of external perceptions.