Rafael Camara Joins Haas Formula 1 Team for Upcoming Season

Ferrari Academy driver Rafael Camara has signed to race for Haas in Formula 1 next season, replacing Frenchman Esteban Ocon at the Ferrari-powered outfit following the announcement of Ocon's departure last month. The 21-year-old Brazilian will join compatriot Gabriel Bortoleto, who already competes for Audi, making Camara the second driver from Brazil on the starting grid.

Camara currently leads the Formula 2 standings by seven points over Red Bull-backed Bulgarian driver Nikola Tsolov with two rounds left in the campaign, having claimed the Formula 3 championship last year. His signing closes the door on immediate full-time race seat opportunities for Australian reserve driver Jack Doohan, who had been seeking a return to the grid after parting ways with Alpine last year. Britain's Oliver Bearman, another Ferrari Academy graduate, is anticipated to remain with Haas.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed the signing, highlighting Camara's junior category accomplishments and praising his speed during challenging Formula 2 moments, including qualifying sessions in Monaco and Montreal. Komatsu also pointed to Camara's display during a previous-car test program in Portimao, Portugal, where the youngster tested last year's VF-25 machinery in August. In addition to his running with Haas, Camara has also carried out testing duties with Ferrari.

Commenting on the move, Camara described the promotion as a vital milestone in his career, noting that his attention is now directed toward preparing for the challenge ahead, collaborating with the crew, getting accustomed to the machinery, and continuing his progress as a competitor.

Ahead of the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, Haas occupies seventh position among the 11 teams in the standings, with Bearman having contributed 23 of their total 30 points.