Brazil revels in return of two home drivers to F1 grid at Interlagos

SAO PAULO, Nov 5 : Formula One fans in Brazil will have twice as much to cheer about at Interlagos this weekend, with Gabriel Bortoleto joined by rookie Rafael Camara to give the country two drivers on the starting grid for the first time in a decade.

The nation that produced triple world champions Ayrton Senna and Nelson Piquet, as well as double champion Emerson Fittipaldi, had lacked a sustained presence in Formula One in recent years, but this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix offers a reminder of its deep connection with the sport.

The last time Brazil had two drivers on the grid was in 2016, with Felipe Massa and Felipe Nasr. Now Bortoleto, in his second season with Audi, will be joined by 21-year-old Camara, who makes his grand prix debut for Haas after replacing Esteban Ocon.

For Camara, racing at home still feels unfamiliar. The Formula Two championship leader has spent most of his career in Europe and will be competing at Interlagos for the first time.

"Very happy for the opportunity. Very grateful for the team to put trust in me this week," Camara told reporters on Thursday.

"I think it will be very special to drive a Formula One car here for the first time and see all the fans. I saw last year with Gabi what it was like, so I think it will be cool to do my first race here in Brazil."

Camara's situation somewhat mirrors that of Bortoleto, who arrived at Interlagos in 2025 having raced there only once before in a stock car event years earlier.

That homecoming proved emotional but painful. Bortoleto crashed heavily in the sprint race, missed qualifying after his damaged Sauber could not be repaired in time, and spun out on the opening lap of the grand prix.

HOME PRESSURE

The Brazilian said the experience taught him valuable