Cadillac are reportedly monitoring Ferrari Driver Academy prospect Rafael Câmara as they assess their Formula 1 driver options for the 2027 season. The Brazilian’s recent Formula 2 performances have attracted attention at a time when Colton Herta’s difficult rookie campaign and uncertain Super Licence prospects are raising questions about Cadillac’s longer-term plans.
The news comes as something of a surprise because Cadillac have repeatedly emphasised that their current drivers, Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas, are tied to long-term contracts. However, several indications suggest that the team could consider changing at least one of its seats ahead of 2027.
Cadillac interest grows after Rafael Câmara’s Formula 2 surge
Cadillac’s interest in Rafael Câmara has developed following an impressive run from the Brazilian in Formula 2. The Ferrari Driver Academy driver has secured four pole positions and two victories across the past five rounds, with both wins coming in Feature Races.
Those performances have reinforced Rafael Câmara’s status as one of Ferrari’s leading young prospects. His progress has already prompted wider discussion about whether he could become Ferrari’s next academy graduate to reach Formula 1.
Rafael Câmara is currently third in the Formula 2 standings, although much of his deficit can be traced back to the mistake he made in Monte Carlo. Without that error, he would now be only three points behind the championship leader.
Beyond his championship position, his overall performance has arguably been the most convincing among the leading drivers this season. That combination of speed and consistency is making Rafael Câmara an increasingly prominent figure in the developing 2027 Formula 1 driver market.
Colton Herta’s Super Licence situation complicates Cadillac’s plans
Cadillac are supporting Colton Herta’s Formula 2 campaign. Like Rafael Câmara, the American is a rookie in the category, although the two drivers arrived through very different career paths.
Colton Herta’s debut season has proved difficult so far. His best result is fifth place and, more importantly, he sits only 16th in the championship, well outside the top 10 positions that award points towards an FIA Super Licence.
Colton Herta currently needs another six points to qualify for a Super Licence. If he cannot obtain them through his final Formula 2 championship position, the only alternative would be to accumulate the necessary points by participating in Friday free practice sessions, with each appearance awarding one point.
That route would require six FP1 outings. However, the four sessions that Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas are required to surrender during the season under the regulations would not be sufficient by themselves.
Cadillac reportedly have concerns over Colton Herta’s readiness
The regulatory situation could potentially be resolved, but Cadillac’s greater concern appears to involve confidence in Colton Herta’s readiness. His difficulties in Formula 2 have reportedly created doubts over whether he is genuinely prepared to make the step into Formula 1.
That assessment is understandable when considering Hitech’s recent level of performance. Although the team has not always delivered consistently, it finished second in the 2025 Formula 2 teams’ championship.
It is within this context that Cadillac’s growing interest in Rafael Câmara should be considered. The Brazilian’s results, qualifying speed and championship position offer a contrasting picture as the American team evaluates its future options.
Rafael Câmara attracts attention from Haas after Ferrari F1 test
Rafael Câmara has also taken another important step in his development by making his Formula 1 testing debut. Ferrari recently placed him behind the wheel of one of its cars during a Testing of Previous Cars programme, giving the Brazilian his first direct experience of Formula 1 machinery.
The test also attracted the attention of Haas, whose relationship with Ferrari has already created a natural pathway for young drivers from Maranello. The American team are searching for a driver to replace Esteban Ocon for the 2027 season, and team principal Ayao Komatsu has publicly expressed his interest in Rafael Câmara.
That possibility has led to further speculation about Rafael Câmara’s potential role with Haas in 2027, although no official agreement has been announced.
Haas prepare comparison between Rafael Câmara and Leonardo Fornaroli
Haas have also organised an initial test at Jerez for Leonardo Fornaroli. According to information that has emerged in recent weeks, Rafael Câmara and Leonardo Fornaroli are expected to take part in another testing session at Portimão at the end of August, allowing Haas to compare the two drivers.
The team can already call upon one Ferrari Driver Academy graduate in Oliver Bearman. His move into Formula 1 has strengthened the development route between Maranello and Haas, while Rafael Câmara has increasingly emerged as another potential member of Ferrari’s next generation of Formula 1 talent.
For Cadillac, signing Rafael Câmara would have a different strategic significance. It would represent an important first point of contact with Maranello and could potentially open the way towards a closer technical and sporting relationship with Ferrari.
No decision has been confirmed, and Cadillac’s current drivers remain under contract. Nevertheless, Rafael Câmara’s recent Formula 2 form, his Ferrari testing opportunity and the interest shown by both Cadillac and Haas have made the Brazilian’s position in the 2027 driver market increasingly significant.
Leave a Reply