Tsolov named Red Bull and Racing Bulls reserve driver for 2027 after missing full-time seat

Nikola Tsolov will serve as reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls in the 2027 Formula 1 season, the Red Bull organisation confirmed, after the 19-year-old missed out on the full-time Racing Bulls seat he had been widely expected to fill.

Tsolov had been strongly linked with replacing Liam Lawson at the Faenza-based team, but weeks of speculation ended when Racing Bulls confirmed Lawson would continue alongside Arvid Lindblad. The Bulgarian instead steps into a reserve and development role that spans both Red Bull-affiliated teams.

The appointment comes on the back of a standout debut campaign in Formula 2, where Tsolov has claimed six victories — including four feature race wins — and became the first driver in series history to win three feature races in succession. He currently sits second in the F2 standings, seven points behind leader Rafael Camara with two rounds remaining.

His 2027 programme will include simulator work, FP1 outings, Testing of Previous Cars sessions, and Pirelli tyre tests, as well as the possibility of stepping in as a race substitute in emergencies — a role that mirrors the one Yuki Tsunoda filled at Racing Bulls when Lawson was called up to Red Bull following Isack Hadjar’s injury.

“Nikola is an exceptionally talented young driver, and we have been hugely impressed by his development and performances over the past few years,” said Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies. “To fight for the championship in F3 and now challenge for the F2 title in his first full season says a great deal about his ability and determination. What has impressed us just as much is his maturity, his approach to racing and his willingness to keep learning and improving.”

Mekies added that the appointment signals a firm commitment to Tsolov’s long-term future in the sport. “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.”

Tsolov himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I’m incredibly happy and grateful to Red Bull for giving me this opportunity. Since joining the junior team, I’ve received amazing support and have developed so much, both as a driver and as a person. My career has progressed incredibly quickly, and I owe a lot to everyone who has believed in me.”

Before his 2027 duties begin, Tsolov still has unfinished business in F2. Camara, who will race for Haas next season, could yet miss the final two rounds if his F1 commitments take priority following his debut at Interlagos as a replacement for the departed Esteban Ocon — a scenario that could yet hand Tsolov the championship.