Haas signs Brazilian Rafael Camara for 2027 Formula 1 debut

Brazilian driver Rafael Camara will make his Formula 1 debut with Haas in 2027, the American team announced Thursday, filling the seat left vacant by Frenchman Esteban Ocon.

The 21-year-old, who currently leads the Formula 2 championship, will partner Britain’s Oliver Bearman, also 21, in the Haas lineup next season.

“It’s an important step in my career,” Camara said in a team statement.

“Now my focus is on preparing myself in the best possible way for this new challenge. There will be a lot to learn, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the team.”

Camara has been part of the Ferrari Driver Academy since 2021 and has risen steadily through the junior racing categories.

He won the Formula 3 championship with Trident in 2025 before joining Invicta Racing in Formula 2 this season, where his performances have strengthened his credentials for a Formula 1 seat.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed the signing.

“I’m really excited to sign such a young, amazing talent like Rafael Camara,” Komatsu said.

“I don’t need to tell everyone about his achievements in the junior formulas, it’s been very impressive.”

Camara’s arrival will give Brazil two drivers on the Formula 1 grid for the first time since 2016, when Felipe Massa raced for Williams and Felipe Nasr represented Sauber.

He will join compatriot Gabriel Bortoleto, who is set to retain his seat with Audi in 2027.

Haas confirmed Ocon’s departure last month as the team prepares its driver lineup for next season.

The American outfit currently sits seventh in the constructors’ standings with 30 points following the Singapore Grand Prix.

The championship continues with the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, on October 25.