Haas Signed Young Former Rafael Camara as Next‑Rookie F1 Talent
Rafael Camara, the Formula 2 champion, has signed a multi‑year contract with Haas F1 Team beginning in 2027, stepping into the rookie category after succeeding Esteban Ocon.
At 21, Camara has rapidly emerged as a standout driver in junior series; he claimed the Formula 3 title last season and currently leads the Formula 2 standings with two races remaining.
Since joining Ferrari’s driver academy in 2021, Camara shares the squad with Oliver Bearman, who began with Haas in 2025. While Haas has not yet confirmed Bearman’s future at Haas in 2027, the team expects him to return shortly.
Ocon departed Haas at the close of this season after two years, a move announced in September.
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Esteban Ocon says he will not drive next year unless it is in Formula One.
“I’m very happy to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team as a Formula 1 driver,” said Camara.
“It’s an important step in my career and I want to thank Gene Haas and Ayao Komatsu for the trust they have placed in me. I’m also very grateful to the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy for their support and for everything they have contributed to my development over the years, as well as to my family for always being there throughout this journey.”
“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, understanding the car and continuing to develop as a driver.”
Camara impressed when he tested the team’s 2025 car at Portugal’s Portimao track in August.
Image: Camara is part Ferrari’s driver academy
Team principal Ayao Komatsu noted, “I’m thrilled to bring such promising young talent—like Rafael Camara—to the helm.” Added, “His achievements in junior formulas have been outstanding, especially his pace during tough spots in his rookie F2 campaign—such as Monaco and Montreal qualifications—which demonstrate immense potential.“
In his TPC program in Portugal, Camara quickly adapted, handling the car efficiently despite limited time to learn.
“Rafa created an excellent environment for self‑enhancement and delivered remarkable laps,” remarked the staff.
Their commitment aims to cultivate this talent fully, providing a supportive setting where Camara can flourish.
Owner Gene Haas expressed confidence that Camara can rival Oliver Bearman’s performance, which already exceeded expectations compared to his former teammate Ocon.
“While this is a higher level, the experience gained from Bearman’s parallel path shows how well‑prepared modern talents are, and they can immediately add value to the team.”
As of the 2027 grid, Haas’ acquisition of Camara represents the sole driver rotation of the season; Racing Bulls are the only other team yet to confirm their 2027 drivers, with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad strongly favored to remain.
