Nikola Tsolov missed out on an immediate promotion to Formula 1, but Red Bull has made it clear that the Bulgarian teenager remains firmly on its radar, handing him a dual reserve driver role with both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls for the 2027 season.
It’s a significant opportunity for the 19-year-old that puts him one step closer to his ultimate ambition of securing a full-time seat in F1.
Tsolov had emerged as a potential candidate to replace Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls after an impressive maiden full-time campaign in Formula 2. However, speculation surrounding the Faenza-based outfit's driver line-up was settled on Thursday when the team confirmed that Lawson would retain his seat for 2027, partnering Arvid Lindblad.
Rather than leave the Bulgarian's progress on hold, Red Bull has opted to integrate him more closely into its F1 operation, giving him responsibilities across both teams.
Tsolov's elevation reflects his rapid progression through the junior categories. His first full season in F2 has been particularly impressive, with six victories to his name this year , including four feature race wins.
His new assignment will extend well beyond the conventional responsibilities of a reserve driver.
Alongside simulator duties and the possibility of being called upon to race should circumstances require it, Tsolov will benefit from an extensive development programme involving FP1 outings, Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) sessions and Pirelli tyre tests.
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies was particularly enthusiastic about the young Bulgarian's progress, highlighting not only his results but also the qualities that have accompanied his rise through the ranks.
“Nikola is an exceptionally talented young driver, and we have been hugely impressed by his development and performances over the past few years," said 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.
"We have enormous belief in Nikola’s potential and see him as a driver with a very exciting future in F1.
“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.
"For now, Nikola still has an important job to finish in F2. We wish him every success in the final two rounds and will be supporting him all the way as he fights for the championship."
Indeed, before turning his attention to his new responsibilities, however, Tsolov has unfinished business in Formula 2.
He currently sits in second place in the championship, just seven points behind leader Rafael Camara with two rounds remaining.
Interestingly, the Brazilian's situation could yet have a bearing on the outcome. Camara is already confirmed for a Haas race seat in 2027 and made his F1 debut at last weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix following Esteban Ocon's departure from the team.
Should his new commitments with Haas prevent him from contesting the remaining F2 rounds, the championship picture could change considerably.
For Tsolov, the prospect of ending his first full F2 campaign with the title would provide an appropriately emphatic conclusion to a season that has considerably enhanced his reputation.
The teenager was understandably delighted with Red Bull's decision, acknowledging the support he has received throughout his development while making no secret of where he ultimately wants to be.
"I’m incredibly happy and grateful to Red Bull for giving me this opportunity,” he said.
“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 and helped me get to this point.
"My ambition is clear: I want to become an F1 driver. Having the opportunity to spend next year preparing for that next step is incredibly exciting. I’m confident that with the team’s support and experience, I’ll have the best possible preparation to make sure I’m fully ready to take the next step onto the F1 grid when the time comes.
"I know there is still a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work hard, make the most of every opportunity and give everything I have to the Team. For now, my immediate focus is on finishing the F2 season as strongly as possible.”
For now, the door to a full-time F1 seat remains closed, but Red Bull's latest decision suggests Tsolov is being positioned for something more than simply waiting in the wings.
With a comprehensive development programme ahead of him and the opportunity to work directly with both Red Bull outfits, the Bulgarian will have a valuable platform from which to make his case.
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