No F1 seat for 2027: Red Bull talent Nikola Tsolov becomes reserve driver

Many Formula 1 reporters and fans were convinced that, having secured six wins and second place in the standings during his first full Formula 2 season, Nikola Tsolov would be promoted to a regular driver’s seat with the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls team. This would have been at the expense of Liam Lawson, who, however, has also had a strong season.

The New Zealander has scored 89 points in the 20 World Championship rounds so far. With three races remaining before the end of the season, the 24-year-old sits ninth in the World Championship standings – just behind Red Bull Racing driver Isack Hadjar. The Frenchman had taken over Lawson’s seat at Red Bull Racing last year after just two World Championship rounds and was replaced by the Racing Bulls returnee this year when he was sidelined for three races due to injury.

Lawson put in strong performances in both the Racing Bulls car and the RB22, thereby securing his place at the Faenza-based team for next year. As a result, Tsolov must settle for the role of reserve driver. The 19-year-old Bulgarian will fulfil this role for both Red Bull teams in Formula 1, undertaking an extensive development programme that includes work in the simulator as well as training and test sessions on the track. This is intended to prepare him for promotion to Formula 1.

Optimal preparation for a move up to Formula 1

Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies says of Tsolov: “Nikola is an exceptionally talented young driver, and we are deeply impressed by his development and performances over the last few years. The fact that he fought for the championship in Formula 3 and is now in contention for the Formula 2 title in his first full season speaks volumes about his ability and determination. We have been equally impressed by his maturity, his approach to racing and his willingness to constantly learn and develop.”

“We firmly believe in Nikolas’s potential and see him as a driver with a very promising future in Formula 1. This appointment reflects our confidence in him and our commitment to his continued development. In 2027, our focus will be on providing him with the experience, resources and support he needs to be ready for the next step into Formula 1,” the Frenchman explains regarding the personnel decision.

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“For now, however, Nikola still has an important task to fulfil in F2. We wish him every success in the final two races and will fully support him on his journey towards the championship fight,” Mekies added.

Formula 1 reserve driver Nikola Tsolov: A clear goal in sight

Tsolov himself says: “I’m incredibly happy and very grateful to Red Bull for giving me this opportunity. Since joining the junior team, I’ve received fantastic support and have developed enormously both as a driver and as a person. My career has progressed incredibly quickly, and I owe a great deal to everyone who believed in me and helped me get this far.”

At the same time, the teenager emphasises: “My goal is clear: I want to become a Formula 1 driver. The opportunity to prepare for this next step next year is incredibly exciting. I’m confident that, with the team’s support and experience, I’ll receive the best possible preparation to ensure I’m fully ready to make the move to Formula 1 when the time comes. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work hard, make the most of every opportunity and give my all for the team. For now, I’m focusing on finishing the Formula 2 season as strongly as possible.”