NederlandsCamara to make Formula 1 debut with Haas at Sao Paulo as Ocon's exit is confirmed
Rafael Camara will make his Formula 1 debut for TGR Haas F1 Team at this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix, partnering Ollie Bearman. The Brazilian, who currently leads the Formula 2 championship, had already been signed by Haas for 2027, but the opportunity to step up has come earlier than planned.
The move follows the confirmation that Esteban Ocon will not return to a race seat with the team this season. Ocon had already said he would leave at the end of 2026. Following a difficult Mexico City weekend, reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, who finished tenth there, is unable to compete in Brazil due to World Endurance Championship commitments, which opened the seat for Camara.
Team Principal Ayao Komatsu said the decision was taken in the best interests of the team and that discussions with Ocon would remain private. Komatsu said Camara had excelled in his testing outing in August. Camara has previously won the Formula Regional European Championship and Formula 3 titles, and is a Ferrari junior driver.