A record-breaking run through Formula 2 has earned Nikola Tsolov a formal role within the Red Bull organisation ahead of the 2027 Formula 1 season.
The 19-year-old Bulgarian becomes reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls, a dual appointment that places him firmly on the path toward a full race seat.
Tsolov’s current F2 campaign has been remarkable, producing six victories including four feature race wins and an unprecedented run of three consecutive feature race triumphs, a first in the series’ history.
Despite that form, a full-time drive at Racing Bulls did not materialise, with the Faenza team confirming Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad as their 2027 pairing after weeks of speculation.
The reserve appointment represents the next step in his development rather than a setback, with Red Bull mapping out an intensive preparation programme designed to make him race-ready.
That programme will blend simulator sessions with on-track work through FP1 outings, Testing of Previous Car sessions, and Pirelli tyre tests across the year.
Should an emergency arise, Tsolov would also be eligible to step in, mirroring the situation where Yuki Tsunoda covered at Racing Bulls after Lawson was called to Red Bull to replace the injured Isack Hadjar.
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies made clear the organisation’s long-term belief in the teenager, stating: “This appointment reflects our confidence in him and our commitment to his continued development. Our focus in 2027 will be on giving him the experience, tools and support he needs to be ready to race in F1 next.”
Mekies also pointed to the broader picture of Tsolov’s progression, noting that competing for championships in both F3 and F2 demonstrated exceptional ability and determination from such a young driver.
Tsolov himself left no ambiguity about where he intends to end up, saying: “My ambition is clear: I want to become an F1 driver.”
He acknowledged the rapid pace of his career progression and credited the Red Bull junior structure for much of his development as both a driver and as an individual.
Before any of those 2027 plans take shape, however, Tsolov has unfinished business in F2, sitting seven points behind championship leader Rafael Camara with two rounds still to run.
Camara, who made his F1 debut at Interlagos for Haas following Esteban Ocon’s departure, could potentially miss those remaining rounds depending on his commitments with the American-owned team.
Tsolov acknowledged the importance of finishing the F2 season strongly, and Red Bull’s message was equally clear that securing the title remains the immediate priority before any focus shifts to 2027.