In 2023, Rafaela joined the Brazilian F4 Championship, securing a podium at the final event at the Interlagos Circuit on the same weekend as the São Paulo Grand Prix. During her 2024 campaign, and only her second season in single seaters, Rafaela became a serial podium finisher, claiming seven podiums and two victories across the year.
In 2025, Rafaela joined the Visa Cash App RB Academy Programme and competed in F1 Academy with Campos Racing, continuing her rapid progression through the junior ranks. Now entering her second season in F1 Academy, Rafaela returns with valuable experience and momentum as she looks to build on a strong rookie campaign against a highly competitive grid.