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Haas Call-Up for São Paulo Grand Prix
Formula 2 points leader Rafael Câmara is set to make an unexpected Formula 1 debut with Haas at the São Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos. The opportunity materialized after the American outfit confirmed that Esteban Ocon would be sidelined for the remainder of the 2026 season. While Ryo Hirakawa substituted for the Frenchman during the previous round in Mexico City, the Japanese driver is unavailable in Brazil due to his commitments with Toyota in the World Endurance Championship this weekend. Consequently, Haas called up Câmara ahead of schedule, advancing his planned entry to the top tier after previously securing him under contract for the 2027 championship.
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Managing Outside Expectations
Addressing the media at Interlagos on Thursday, the 21-year-old explained that he aims to focus entirely on matters within his own control rather than outside scrutiny. Câmara explained that external commentary and what happens on the outside have not really been a problem for him, adding that he expects matters to run smoothly. The challenge in São Paulo will be greater because he has not driven the 2026 Haas car and does not know the Interlagos circuit behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car.
Simulator Preparation with Ferrari
Despite the sudden nature of the promotion, Câmara completed simulator preparation before traveling to Brazil. As a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, the Brazilian was already scheduled for preparatory simulator sessions ahead of a planned young driver free practice appearance later in the campaign. He carried out runs on Ferrari's simulator using an older-specification machine a few days prior to his trip. Câmara noted that turning laps on the simulator provided helpful preparation, expressing confidence that three one-hour free practice sessions will allow him to adapt to the car and build performance across the weekend.
Formula 2 Campaign and Unconfirmed Future Rounds
The Grand Prix appearance arrives at a critical juncture in Câmara's career, as he currently leads the Formula 2 standings in his debut season with two rounds remaining in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Haas has not yet confirmed whether the Brazilian will remain in the seat for those concluding two events of the season. When questioned regarding that possibility, Câmara declined to look beyond the immediate weekend, stating that subsequent decisions remain for the future while his sole priority is building confidence and maximizing track time in front of his home crowd.
Related reading: Haas São Paulo GP Vacancy Leaves Door Open for Rafael Câmara F1 Debut.
