Source: Official Team Post via X
Why Haas is Banking on Rookie Rafael Camara for 2027
Haas is making waves by promoting F2 star Rafael Camara to their 2027 F1 lineup, replacing Esteban Ocon. The decision highlights Haas' strategy to nurture young talent alongside Oliver Bearman.
The Formula 1 grid will welcome a fresh face in 2027 as Haas has decided to bring in Brazilian F2 championship leader Rafael Camara. This move breaks the recent trend of teams sticking with their current lineups, as Haas opts to take a calculated risk by promoting a rookie. Esteban Ocon, despite having a race win to his name, will not see a third season with the team. Instead, the promising sophomore Ollie Bearman has outperformed his teammate, prompting Haas to consider new talent.
Team Principal Ayao Komatsu, exploring options through Haas' Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) programme, assessed several young drivers, including F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, current leader Camara, and reserve drivers Ryo Hirakawa and Jack Doohan. It was during these tests in Portimao, Portugal, that Camara distinguished himself, showing remarkable speed and adaptability when handling F1 machinery.
Camara, who has been gaining momentum throughout his season with Invicta Racing in F2, has taken the championship lead with two race weekends remaining. His performance caught the eye not only of Haas but also of Ferrari, a longstanding partner of the American team. Ferrari has been keeping tabs on him through their junior programme and sees him as a strong future prospect.
Beyond his racing credentials, Camara brings commercial appeal, enhancing his attractiveness as a driver on the F1 stage. While promoting a rookie is inherently risky — especially one who has yet to race in current F1 machinery during a Grand Prix weekend — Haas is encouraged by their success with Bearman, another Ferrari junior. Bearman has thrived since joining in 2025, proving that Haas can indeed nurture young talent effectively.
As Camara steps up, he will join Gabriel Bortoleto as one of two Brazilians on the grid. Meanwhile, Bearman is expected to retain his seat at Haas. The Briton has shown significant progress in his second season, with improved single-lap and race performances, securing a season-best finish of fifth in China and scoring 23 points to Ocon's seven.
Komatsu is eager to continue with Bearman, and it appears only minor contract details need ironing out before a new deal is finalized. Ferrari, too, is pleased with Bearman's development and sees him as a candidate for a potential future move to the iconic Italian team.
In summary, Haas' decision to sign Camara reflects their strategy of investing in fresh talent, hoping to replicate and build on the success they've seen with Bearman. It’s a bold move, but one that could pay dividends as they look to climb the F1 ranks.