Who is the latest Brazilian prodigy eyeing a place in F1?
Ferrari junior Rafael Camara is emerging as a leading candidate for a 2027 Formula 1 seat after a rapid rise through junior categories, currently third in the 2025 Formula 2 championship.
Rafael Camara, a 21-year-old Brazilian driver, is gaining attention as a potential Formula 1 driver for 2027. Currently competing in Formula 2 with the Ferrari Driver Academy, Camara has built a strong reputation through consistent performances in lower categories. His career began in karting at age six, following his father’s initial interest in motorsports. By his final karting season in 2021, he won the WSK Champions Cup and WSK Super Masters Series, finishing second in the CIK-FIA European Championship behind Kimi Antonelli.
Camara’s transition to single-seaters in 2022 saw him join the Ferrari Driver Academy alongside Ollie Bearman. He secured podium finishes in Italian and ADAC F4 championships, as well as second place in the Formula 4 UAE championship despite missing the first round due to Covid-19. In 2023, he competed in the Formula Regional Middle East and European championships, finishing third and fifth respectively. Instead of moving to FIA Formula 3, he remained in Formula Regional for another season, winning the European title in 2024 with seven race victories.
In 2025, Camara stepped up to FIA Formula 3 and claimed the championship early, with four wins, five pole positions, and a 20% win rate matching the highest in competition history. His performances included a remarkable pole position in Monaco despite damaging his rear suspension on the opening lap. Ferrari Deputy Team Principal Jerome D’Ambrosio praised his composure under pressure, noting his ability to manage tense situations and maintain control while driving at the limit.
Camara currently sits third in the 2025 Formula 2 Drivers' Championship after nine rounds, trailing leader Nikola Tsolov by 22 points. He has secured four pole positions, converting two into wins in Barcelona and Spa-Francorchamps. His ability to recover from setbacks, such as a tyre management error in Monaco, has demonstrated his adaptability and resilience, key traits for a potential Formula 1 future.