Sao Paulo (AFP) - Brazilian driver Rafael Camara finds himself facing a new and unknown experience, as he prepares to run his first race in the Formula One World Championship with the Haas team, during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, in a race held on his home soil and among the fans of his country.
Published on: 05/11/2026 - 20:33
Not only is he competing in Formula 1 for the first time, but he has also never driven on the famous Interlagos circuit.
Kamara said on Thursday: “I was very surprised to be given this opportunity. I am very happy with this experience, and very grateful to the team for their confidence in me.”
He added, "I will try to enjoy the race in front of my country's fans and have the most fun experience."
He continued, "It is my first time driving here, and also my first time in Formula 1. So far, things are going well, and I think the experience will be good."
The Ferrari Academy driver was scheduled to drive Charles Leclerc's car during the first free practice session on Friday, before the Haas team called him up, following the disqualification of Frenchman Esteban Ocon in the Mexican Grand Prix.
Kamara, 21 years old, had already been decided to participate as a replacement for Ocon, starting next season.
Veteran Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa replaced the excluded Ocon in the Mexican race last weekend, and succeeded in finishing the race in tenth place.
Kamara will lead alongside Briton Oliver Berman, who is having a strong season.
The Brazilian driver said: “Oli has consistently performed well over the past year, and I will try to benefit from him and learn as much as possible.”
The Haas team has not yet decided whether Kamara will participate in the final races of the season, if they are held.
Kamara leads the Formula 2 championship, which has two rounds remaining, scheduled to be held simultaneously with the Qatar Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, but the holding of the two races has become in doubt due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
© 2026 AFP
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