Red Bull has confirmed that Nikola Tsolov will become the reserve driver for both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls in the 2027 Formula 1 season, giving the highly rated Bulgarian teenager a significant opportunity to move closer to a permanent place on the grid.
The 19-year-old’s promotion follows the decision to retain Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad at Racing Bulls, ending speculation that Tsolov could receive a full-time promotion after an impressive first full season in Formula 2.
However, Red Bull has made clear that it sees Tsolov as an important part of its future plans, with an extensive development programme designed to prepare him for a potential F1 race seat.
Mekies explains Red Bull’s decision to promote Tsolov
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies was particularly complimentary about the teenager’s progress, pointing to his performances in both Formula 3 and Formula 2.
“Nikola is an exceptionally talented young driver, and we are deeply impressed by his development and achievements over the last few years,” Mekies said.
The Frenchman highlighted Tsolov’s skill, determination, maturity and willingness to continually improve, explaining that the team believes he has a promising future in Formula 1.
Mekies added: “Our focus in 2027 will be on giving him the experience, resources and support he needs to be ready for Formula 1 next.”
The appointment will involve considerably more than simply being available as a replacement driver. Tsolov is expected to undertake simulator and development work, participate in selected free practice sessions, testing with previous-generation machinery and tyre testing.
That programme should provide valuable experience of working directly with Red Bull’s engineers and understanding the demands of a modern Formula 1 operation.
Lawson and Lindblad close the door on immediate promotion
Tsolov had been hoping to secure a permanent Racing Bulls seat for 2027 following his performances in the junior categories.
However, Thursday’s confirmation that Lawson and Lindblad will continue together means there is no immediate vacancy for the Bulgarian.
The decision represents a setback in terms of his ambitions to race full-time in Formula 1, but his promotion to reserve driver ensures he remains closely connected to both teams.
It also places him in a potentially useful position should either Red Bull outfit require a replacement during the season.
Six F2 victories put Tsolov firmly in the spotlight
Tsolov’s promotion comes after a particularly impressive campaign in Formula 2.
Having finished runner-up in the 2025 Formula 3 championship, he has carried that momentum into his first full F2 season with Campos Racing.
He currently sits second in the 2026 championship standings with 200 points, just seven behind leader Rafael Câmara, with the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds still to come.
His six victories include four Feature Race wins and two Sprint Race victories. He has also become the first driver in F2 history to win three consecutive races.
Tsolov has already sampled Formula 1 machinery, completing a test at Imola before making his first official practice appearance with Racing Bulls at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Those experiences have helped strengthen his case for a more prominent role within the organisation.
Tsolov makes his Formula 1 ambition clear
The teenager was understandably delighted with the announcement and made no secret of his ultimate objective.
“I’m incredibly happy and grateful to Red Bull for giving me this opportunity,” Tsolov said.
He also acknowledged the support he has received since joining the Red Bull Junior Team in 2025, explaining how much he has developed both professionally and personally.
“My career has progressed incredibly fast, and I owe a great deal to everyone who believed in me and helped me get this far.”
His ambition, however, remains straightforward.
“My goal is clear. I want to become a Formula 1 driver.”
Tsolov added that the opportunity to prepare for the next step during 2027 was incredibly exciting, although he recognised that he still had plenty to learn.
For now, his immediate priority remains the F2 championship battle.
Red Bull’s decision does not guarantee Tsolov a future race seat, but the scale of the development programme demonstrates that the team is prepared to invest heavily in his progression.
With two F2 rounds remaining and a full season working alongside both Red Bull teams ahead, the Bulgarian has an important opportunity to turn his junior-category success into a genuine Formula 1 future.
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