Komatsu explains why Haas chose Camara over Hirakawa for São Paulo

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu says the team chose Rafael Camara over Ryo Hirakawa for a Formula 1 debut at the São Paulo Grand Prix because he believed the decision best served Haas. He said the choice was not a judgment that Hirakawa lacked professionalism.

Camara’s signing for 2027 did not make a São Paulo outing automatic, Komatsu said; the decision still carried risk. A key factor was the Portimão shootout for the 2027 seat, where Camara decisively outpaced Hirakawa. Komatsu said Camara impressed him not only with his lap time but also with his composure under pressure as track conditions changed.

Conversations with Camara on Sunday night, Monday and Tuesday reinforced Komatsu’s confidence that the Brazilian could shut out distractions, focus on what he could control and bring the same mindset to Interlagos.

Hirakawa remained an option despite racing in the WEC finale at Monza with Toyota’s championship-leading #8 crew, where he could clinch a third world title. Komatsu was also impressed by Hirakawa’s progress in Mexico. He averaged seven tenths slower than Oliver Bearman in the grand prix, but three post-race penalties for rivals meant he scored a point.