Haas have confirmed Rafael Camara as their second driver for the 2027 season, signing the 21-year-old Brazilian on a multi-year deal. Camara will race alongside Ollie Bearman, giving the American outfit one of the youngest driver lineups on the entire grid. The Ferrari Driver Academy product beat out competition from Leonardo Fornaroli and Ryo Hirakawa for the seat, replacing experienced Frenchman Esteban Ocon.

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Camara's move to F1 comes after an impressive rookie Formula 2 campaign where he's currently leading the title chase. The young gun still has two rounds left in his F2 season, but Haas clearly weren't waiting around. He's already sampled the team's machinery through their TPC program in Portugal, where he impressed the outfit with his ability to adapt quickly despite limited seat time. His combined age with Bearman sits at just 42 years old, making them significantly younger than Fernando Alonso's 45 years as a solo act.

Camara expressed his excitement in a team statement, thanking Gene Haas and team principal Ayao Komatsu for the opportunity. The Brazilian acknowledged his Ferrari Driver Academy roots and his family's support, while committing to prepare thoroughly for the massive step up to F1. He acknowledged there's plenty to learn but showed the right mindset about soaking up knowledge from his new team.

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Komatsu spoke glowingly about Camara's potential, highlighting his composure in tricky qualifying situations at Monaco and Montreal during his F2 campaign. The team principal praised how the youngster managed to create the right environment around himself during his TPC evaluation, showing maturity beyond just raw speed. Haas are clearly betting big on nurturing this talent and providing the support system he needs to flourish in the top category.

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Team owner Gene Haas also backed the decision, pointing to Camara's successful progression through Formula 3 and Formula 2. He drew parallels with Bearman's trajectory and the Ferrari Driver Academy's track record of producing well-prepared drivers who can make immediate impacts. Based on what they saw in Portugal, Haas are confident they've made a smart long-term investment in their future.

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