Tsolov to join Red Bull's F1 line-up in 2028

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has indicated that Nikola Tsolov will be on the Formula 1 grid in 2028. The announcement follows Racing Bulls confirming that Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will remain its race drivers for 2027, leaving no seat available for Tsolov in the short term.

Instead, the 19-year-old Bulgarian will spend 2027 on a programme combining simulator work, Testing of Previous Cars outings and mandatory rookie first practice sessions. Tsolov, who moved from the Alpine Academy into Red Bull's junior setup for 2025, is currently fighting for the Formula 2 title in his first full season at that level.

Mekies said the focus in 2027 will be on giving Tsolov the experience, tools and support he needs to be ready to race in F1 next. Tsolov said his immediate focus is finishing the F2 season as strongly as possible.