Haas holds auditions for these drivers: 2027 F1 seat at stake

From Wednesday through Friday, Haas has rented the Portimao circuit, where, under the so-called Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program, various drivers will get the opportunity to showcase their skills. Among them are McLaren reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli and Rafael Camara (a Ferrari prospect). Ryo Hirakawa may also take part. Toyota — a technical partner of Haas — would like to see the Japanese driver in Formula 1 full-time next season.

There is often secrecy about who takes part, but Fred Vasseur makes no secret that his Ferrari protégé is included. Speaking to, among others, GPblog, the Scuderia team boss says: “Haas is our partner and together we’re trying to find the best way to get him into Formula 1 next year.”

Ferrari sees a bright future in the Brazilian, who is currently competing in Formula 2. “We support Raffa enormously. It’s not just about financial backing. We have provided that financial support, but we’ve also done many TPC tests with him this year. The costs of those are many times higher than the financial backing. We’re doing this to prepare him as well as possible for next week’s test and for next season,” said Vasseur.

With the audition in Portugal, Haas appears to be preparing for a farewell to Esteban Ocon. Although the experienced Frenchman himself hopes for a new contract with the American team, it’s being suggested in the F1 paddock that a parting of ways is near. Haas does want to continue with Oliver Bearman. The Brit is also part of the Ferrari stable and would be loaned out for another year.

For next season there are very few F1 seats available, which puts Haas in a favorable position. There is a large supply of drivers, while there are hardly any openings. As a result, Haas may be able to land a stronger driver than would normally have been possible.