Nikola Tsolov has been appointed as the reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls for the 2027 Formula 1 championship, after missing the chance for a full-time position.
The 19-year-old driver from Bulgaria was rumored to be stepping up from F2 to fill Liam Lawson’s spot at Racing Bulls in 2027. However, after a period of speculation, the Faenza-based team put an end to the rumors by declaring that Lawson would remain with the team alongside Arvid Lindblad.
Tsolov has shown remarkable skill in his inaugural full season in F2, securing six wins, which includes four feature races, making him the first in the series to achieve three consecutive victories.
Next season, he will assume a reserve role and focus on development. His responsibilities will include the potential to act as a substitute in case of necessity—similar to how Yuki Tsunoda stepped in at Racing Bulls when Lawson replaced the injured Isack Hadjar at Red Bull. Tsolov’s regimen will encompass an extensive plan featuring simulator sessions alongside on-track experiences through FP1 and TPC [Testing of Previous Car] assignments, as well as tests with Pirelli tyres.
“Nikola is an exceptionally talented young driver, and we have been hugely impressed by his development and performances over the past few years,” commented Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies.
“Fighting for the championship in F3 and now contending for the F2 title in his first complete season speaks volumes about his skills and resolve. What has impressed us just as much is his maturity, approach to racing, and eagerness to continue learning and developing.
“We have immense faith in Nikola’s potential and see him as a driver with a tremendously promising future in F1.”
Nikola Tsolov
Photo by: Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images
“This decision showcases our trust in him and our dedication to his ongoing development. Our aim in 2027 will be to provide him with the experience, resources, and backing he needs to be prepared for an F1 race next.
“Currently, Nikola has an essential task to complete in F2. We wish him great success in the remaining two rounds and will support him in his race for the championship.”
Tsolov currently holds the second position in the F2 rankings, trailing leader Rafael Camara by seven points with two races still to go. However, the Brazilian may miss the upcoming rounds if he continues with Haas, for whom he will compete next season, after stepping up to make his debut at Interlagos following Esteban Ocon’s exit.
Tsolov expressed: “I’m really thrilled and thankful to Red Bull for providing me with this chance. Since joining the junior team, I’ve received tremendous support and have greatly evolved, both as a driver and an individual. My career has advanced at an astonishing pace, and I owe a lot to everyone who has placed their trust in me and assisted me in reaching this point.
“My goal is clear: I aspire to be an F1 driver. Being able to spend next year preparing for that next milestone is truly exhilarating. I’m confident that with the team’s support and experience, I’ll receive the best preparation to ensure I’m fully equipped to step onto the F1 grid when the moment arrives.
“I acknowledge there is still so much to learn, but I’m ready to invest the effort, maximize every opportunity, and fully commit to the team. For now, my immediate focus is on finishing the F2 season as powerfully as possible.”
We want to hear from you!
Let us know what you would like to see from us in the future.
Take our survey
– The Autosport.com Team
