Ayao Komatsu: Rafael Camara chosen for F1 2027 seat on speed, not Ferrari links
Haas boss Ayao Komatsu says that new Formula 1 recruit Rafael Camara was chosen over the likes of Leonardo Fornaroli and Ryo Hirakawa due to the speed and adaptability he showed during the team's tests with older machinery. In assessing drivers for 2027, Haas put together a series of runs with the 2025 car in its testing of previous cars (TPC) programme, inviting current Formula 2 championship…
Haas has selected Rafael Camara for their F1 seat in 2027 based on his speed and adaptability, not his connections to Ferrari, according to Haas boss Ayao Komatsu. The team tested Camara during the TPC program, inviting him along with current F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, reserves Ryo Hirakawa and Jack Doohan. Camara impressed during his first test in Portugal, particularly at the Portimao circuit where he showed outstanding pace and the ability to handle changing conditions.
Komatsu emphasized that Haas was focused on picking the fastest driver in their TPC runs, stating that Camara's performance was "simply outstanding." Despite Haas' prior success in developing Ferrari juniors, Komatsu stated that they would base their decisions on performance alone, and he expressed confidence in Camara's potential despite acknowledging that there would be a learning curve for both the team and Camara as he adapts to F1.
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Also reported by 4 other outlets
- Haas F1 confirms Rafael Camara for 2027 season sbnation.com
- Rookie Rafael Camara to join Ollie Bearman at Haas in 2027 sports.yahoo.com
- Did Haas make the correct decision in signing Rafael Camara for F1 2027? motorsport.com
- Brazilian Camara to join Haas for F1 debut in 2027 bbc.co.uk
