Leader of the Formula 2 drivers’ championship in his debut season in the category, Bulgarian Nikola Tsolov believes he could get an opportunity in Formula 1 if he maintains the performance that took him to the top of the standings. He is considered one of the main names in the Red Bull academy.
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A possible arrival in F1 would likely happen through Racing Bulls. The team principal, Alan Permane, has already stated that Tsolov is “next in line” within the Red Bull family and confirmed that the young driver is “on the radar” for a future opportunity.
Tsolov built his career in the junior categories with distinction. He debuted in FIA Formula 3 in 2023, won five races, and moved up to Formula 2 after replacing Pepe Marti in the last two rounds of last season.
Although he has not yet participated in an F1 free practice session and does not hold an FIA Super License (International Automobile Federation), the Bulgarian remains confident in his chances. During the Hungarian GP, he stated that he has not yet received information about his future but believes good results can open the way.
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“Nothing yet, unfortunately,” he told Sky Sports F1. “But it’s still early. We need to get through the summer break. I need to keep doing what I’m doing; obviously, I have no doubt that if everything continues on the same path, I will certainly have an opportunity one day.”
At the start of the season, rumors arose that Tsolov was already set as a Racing Bulls driver for 2027, but the speculations were considered premature. The young driver prefers to keep his focus on the F2 championship and believes that a good performance in the category will be essential to increase his chances.
“So, for me, that’s important,” he added. “I focus on the present, which is F2, and obviously, the better I am today in F2, the more chance I give myself,” he concluded.
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