Verstappen urges F1 debutant Câmara to enjoy his home race

Max Verstappen has urged Rafael Câmara to enjoy his Formula 1 debut at his home Grand Prix in Brazil and take the opportunity step by step. The 21-year-old, who leads the Formula 2 championship, will make his debut for Haas in place of Esteban Ocon.

At an FIA press conference ahead of the race, Verstappen said the pressure in Brazil can be considerable. He cited the country’s rich motorsport history and the many world champions it has produced, and said Brazilians want to see a compatriot back in Formula 1. “I think above all he should enjoy the moment,” Verstappen said.

Verstappen described the timing as favourable: Câmara is already assured of a Haas seat for 2027, when he would normally make his full-time debut. If he races the rest of this season, the additional Grand Prix weekends are a bonus; they can also help him get familiar with the car and work with the team and engineers.

Verstappen said Câmara has already shown his talent in the junior categories, but that the driver, those around him and Haas must nurture it over the coming years.