Sao Paulo (AFP) – The Brazilian driver Rafael Câmara stated this Thursday that he faces his debut in Formula 1, at the Brazilian Grand Prix, with the aim of taking advantage of the opportunity, learning and enjoying his first race in front of the fans of his country.

First modification: 06/11/2026 - 17:15

Câmara will make his debut with Haas in the top category this Sunday in Sao Paulo after the sudden departure of Frenchman Esteban Ocon during the Mexican GP last weekend.

"I am very happy for the opportunity and for the trust that the team has placed in me this week. I am just trying to enjoy my home race and have a little fun," said Câmara, 21, at a press conference at the Interlagos circuit, home of the Grand Prix.

He acknowledged that the call took him by surprise, although he explained that he did not need to substantially modify his physical preparation or his training routine.

"When the news came that I would actually have the opportunity to compete all weekend, it was a good surprise," he said.

The driver from Recife (northeast) admitted that he has a lot of information to assimilate in a few days and that he still has to learn different aspects of the car.

That is why he appreciated that the Grand Prix has the traditional format, with three free practice sessions, since he has never driven at Interlagos.

Câmara avoided advancing his plans for the last two Formula 2 tests, whose calendars partly coincide with those of F1.

He thanked the support he has received from Brazilian fans since his time in Formula 3 and described the opportunity to compete for the first time in front of his audience as special.

With Câmara and Gabriel Bortoleto, Brazil will once again have two drivers in a Formula 1 event for the first time since the 2016 Abu Dhabi GP, in which Felipe Massa and Felipe Nasr participated.

© 2026 AFP

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