Rafa Camara will make his Formula 1 debut with Haas at the Brazilian Grand Prix after the team confirmed Esteban Ocon will not return to its race line-up this season. Camara, who is already signed to replace Ocon in 2027, will drive the VF-26 at Interlagos alongside Ollie Bearman.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu said the decision followed the same reasoning as the team’s choice to replace Ocon in Mexico, describing it as being in the team’s best interests. Komatsu added that discussions with the French driver would remain private. Ocon is a free agent next year.
Ocon was replaced by reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa from Saturday in Mexico. Hirakawa finished 10th and scored a point on his debut. Haas has not yet confirmed whether Camara or Hirakawa will take part in the remaining races in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, saying the line-up could involve both drivers.
Camara currently leads the Formula 2 standings and has completed five tests in previous-generation cars during the season: four in Ferrari’s SF-25 and one in Haas’s VF-25. His August test at Portimao helped persuade Haas of his ability. He has not yet driven a 2026 Formula 1 car.
The change also affects Ferrari’s Friday practice plans. Camara had been scheduled to drive in FP1 for the team, but Swedish driver Dino Beganovic will take that session instead.
Sources: Autosport.