Source: Official Team Post via X
Rafael Camara: Haas's New Hope for the F1 2027 Season
Rafael Camara is set to join the F1 grid with Haas in 2027, replacing Esteban Ocon. The Brazilian driver has been making waves in junior categories, backed by Ferrari's development program.
Rafael Camara is set to make his Formula 1 debut with Haas in the 2027 season, stepping into the cockpit previously occupied by Esteban Ocon. This Brazilian rookie, who will be 21 at the start of the season, is the first newcomer confirmed for the upcoming F1 roster.
Karting Beginnings and Breakthrough
Hailing from Recife, Brazil, Camara's journey to F1 hasn't followed a traditional path. While his parents had no racing background, his grandmother, Niége Rossiter, was an exception, having raced in various competitions in the 1960s. Camara's early years in karting were solid, if not spectacular, but things changed in 2019. He finished second in the CIK-FIA World Championship's OK-J category, a significant step forward for the young driver.
In 2020, he moved up to the OK category, achieving third place in the Champions of the Future event. However, it was 2021 that proved to be his breakout year. Camara dominated the karting scene, winning the WSK Champions Cup, the WSK Super Masters Series, and the Champions of the Future titles, while also finishing second in the CIK-FIA European Championship.
Rivals and Progression
Camara transitioned to car racing in 2022, quickly showcasing his talent. He finished second in the F4 UAE Championship and third in both the Italian and German F4 championships. In these competitions, he found himself up against Kimi Antonelli, who would go on to become a formidable rival. Antonelli claimed the titles in these series, and their rivalry continued into 2023 in the Formula Regional Middle East and European championships. Camara secured respectable third and fifth places, earning two wins on the European circuit.
A Ferrari Protégé
Camara's potential caught Ferrari's eye, and he joined their driver academy in 2021 at just 16 years old. Partnering with Prema Racing, he honed his skills in Formula Regional competitions. By his second season, Camara had clinched the European title with nine wins, after finishing third in the Middle East series with Mumbai Falcons.
His progress continued on the F1 support circuit, where he won the title in his first attempt, claiming four wins and five pole positions. Currently, Camara leads the F2 standings, narrowly ahead of Red Bull Junior Nikola Tsolov, with two rounds left.
Despite not having participated in any FP1 sessions, Camara has gained valuable experience through testing previous cars. His rise to the F1 grid with Haas marks an exciting new chapter in his career, as well as for the team.