F2 racer Rafael Camara to make F1 debut at Sao Paulo Grand Prix as Haas confirm Esteban Ocon will not return

Ferrari junior and Formula 2 standings leader Rafael Camara will drive for Haas at the upcoming Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with the team confirming Esteban Ocon will no longer compete for them this year.

Over the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, Ocon – who previously announced he would be departing Haas at the end of the season – was replaced by reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa.

He finished P10 to score a point in his first race for the team, but pre-existing commitments in the World Endurance Championship this upcoming weekend has opened the door for Camara – who is signed to Haas for 2027 – to make his F1 debut earlier than originally planned at his home event.

The Brazilian has several years of experience in the junior formulae, securing titles in Formula Regional European Championship and Formula 3, but he also impressed in Haas’ 2025 challenger during a Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) test in August.

Team Principal Ayao Komatsu said: “We have now notified Esteban Ocon that he will not return to a race seat with TGR Haas F1 Team this season.

“Such decisions are never made lightly, as was the case in Mexico City – but then, as now, we feel this is firmly in the best interests of the team moving forward.

“The conversations that ultimately unfolded between the team and Esteban remain an internal matter, and we will continue to respect the private nature of closed-door situations.

“Looking ahead, we’ve chosen Rafael Camara to drive alongside Ollie Bearman at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Having excelled in his TPC outing in August, we know Rafa’s capabilities and we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team this weekend and working with him through his Formula 1 debut driving the VF-26 in Brazil.”