The Brazilian driver Rafael Camara has been chosen by the Haas F1 Team to occupy a seat in Formula 1 for the 2027 season. The decision, announced by the team director, Ayao Komatsu, is based on Camara’s excellent performances during tests conducted with previous cars from the brand, where he stood out for his speed and adaptability.
Haas conducted a test with their 2025 car, in which not only Camara participated but also other drivers like Leonardo Fornaroli, Ryo Hirakawa, and Jack Doohan. However, it was in Camara’s first session at Portimao that he made a remarkable impression on the team officials, which determined his selection over other candidates.
Komatsu denied that the collaboration with Ferrari influenced his decision, stating that the main selection criterion was performance. “He was the fastest, that is the simplest answer,” commented the Japanese director. Furthermore, he highlighted that the relationship with Scuderia provides access to drivers from Ferrari’s young driver program, but that Camara’s speed was the definitive factor in his selection.
Camara’s signing, along with the continuity of Oliver Bearman, will mean that Haas will have two drivers trained by Ferrari in the upcoming season. Komatsu emphasized that they were looking for the fastest driver with the best driving feel, which turns out to be elusive.
Additionally, the team will explore the possibility of Camara participating in a FP1 session before the end of the season, although this decision is under consideration. The team director concluded that, while it has been an exciting experience, time should be spent getting to know the needs of the new driver better before fully engaging in competition.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
