Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu has indicated that Rafael Camara’s recent TPC test helped show a “special” attribute that may have convinced him to take a chance on the Brazilian youngster.
Camara has been confirmed as the American squad‘s replacement for the outgoing Esteban Ocon for the 2027 Formula 1 season, ending months of speculation.
The F2 title-leader is expected to partner fellow Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman, signing a “multi-year” agreement to race for the team from next year.
Camara’s signing has followed months of rumours about such a prospect becoming reality, with the 21-year-old recently completing a Testing of Previous Cars [TPC] test alongside fellow hopefuls Jack Doohan and Leonardo Fornaroli.
And it was at the TPC test in Portimao that Komatsu saw some additional skills that show Camara as potentially more than just any young talent.
“I’m really excited to sign such a young, amazing talent like Rafael Câmara,” the Japanese said in a statment.
“I don’t need to tell everyone about his achievements in the junior formulas, it’s been very impressive, and in his rookie season in Formula 2, the speed he’s shown in some very difficult moments, like qualifying in Monaco and Montreal – that all goes to show the potential Rafa has.
“He showed when we had him drive in our TPC program in Portugal that he could handle himself very well with not a huge amount of time to learn the car, he showed us more than just raw speed. Rafa managed to create an environment to get the best out of himself, it was very impressive and certainly the laps he completed were special.
“We’re all excited about this opportunity and really committed as TGR Haas F1 Team to nurture this talent and provide a place where he can flourish. We want to create an environment where he’s comfortable and supported, where he can really excel in his capabilities.”
Haas looking for a Bearman-style “trajectory” for Camara
Gene Haas, the team’s owner, conveyed his hope that Camara will follow a “similar trajectory” that Bearman has shown, the young Brit now in his second full season of F1.
“I’m excited to see what Rafael Câmara can achieve in Formula 1 having seen his accomplishments coming up through the ranks in Formula 3 and now Formula 2 this year,” he said.
“It’s a different challenge at this level but what we’ve experienced through Ollie Bearman following a similar trajectory and association with the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy, these younger drivers are well prepared, and they can make an immediate impact on a team.
“Rafa impressed the team with his TPC performance, so we look forward to building on that and growing our relationship full-time next season.”
READ MORE – Rafael Camara outlines priorities for preparation of debut F1 season with Haas
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