Nikola Tsolov Named Reserve Driver for Red Bull and Racing Bulls in 2027

Nikola Tsolov will serve as the official reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls in 2027, a decision announced simultaneously with the confirmation that Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad retain their race seats. The 19-year-old Bulgarian missed out on an immediate promotion because Lawson’s strong recent form secured him a new deal, ending weeks of speculation about his future at the Faenza-based team. Instead of a full-time drive, Tsolov receives an "extensive development programme" designed to prepare him for F1 competition. This arrangement includes simulator work, Testing of Previous Cars sessions, selected test days, and Pirelli tyre testing alongside potential FP1 outings. He has already completed TPC and FP1 runs during the current season, including an impressive debut in Mexico City where he compared favorably to rookie Lindblad.

A clear path forward

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies described Tsolov as an "exceptionally talented young driver," citing his championship fights in Formula 3 and his current challenge in Formula 2. Mekies emphasized that the appointment reflects confidence in Tsolov’s maturity and willingness to learn, stating that the focus for next year is providing the tools needed to be ready for the grid. Tsolov expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that his career has progressed quickly since joining the junior team. He stated his ambition clearly: "I want to become an F1 driver." The reserve role allows him to maintain this trajectory while finishing his current campaign. His immediate priority remains the F2 title, where he sits second in the standings.

Context from the track

Tsolov’s position in F2 is defined by a seven-point deficit behind Rafael Camara, who has stepped up to make his F1 debut with Haas following Esteban Ocon’s departure. With only two rounds remaining in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, it is unclear if Camara will return to F2 to contest the championship or remain with Haas. Tsolov has claimed six wins in his rookie F2 season, including a streak of three consecutive feature race victories that marked a series first. His performance contrasts with the uncertainty surrounding other grid spots, such as Valtteri Bottas’ status at Cadillac, which remains unconfirmed despite multi-year contract rumors. Meanwhile, Racing Bulls team boss Alan Permane declared the retention of Lawson and Lindblad the best possible line-up for the team. Lawson, who scored 89 points this year, helped propel Racing Bulls to fifth place in the constructors’ championship, their highest ever finish. The team now enters its final races with a settled driver lineup for the coming year.