Tsolov handed new Red Bull role for 2027 after losing out to Lawson

The 19-year-old Bulgarian had emerged as a serious contender to replace Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls next season, following an impressive Formula 2 campaign. However, the Faenza-based outfit has opted to retain its existing driver pairing.

As previously reported, Racing Bulls confirmed on Thursday that Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will continue as teammates in 2027, ending months of speculation surrounding the team's driver line-up.

The decision leaves Tsolov without a permanent place on the Formula 1 grid next year, although his reserve role will keep him involved with both teams within the Red Bull organisation.

Tsolov had put himself firmly in contention for a Formula 1 debut following a strong maiden full season in Formula 2, where he has claimed six victories and remains in the championship fight.

His performances attracted considerable attention from Red Bull, with Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane previously describing the Bulgarian as next in line for a potential promotion.

Tsolov also gained valuable Formula 1 experience during 2026, completing private testing with Racing Bulls before making his official Grand Prix weekend debut in the opening practice session at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

During that session, he finished just over a tenth of a second behind Lindblad, further demonstrating his potential.

However, Lawson's performances in the closing stages of the season strengthened the New Zealander's case for another year with Racing Bulls. His seventh-place finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix followed an impressive fifth position in qualifying, helping convince the team to maintain continuity.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies expressed his confidence in Tsolov's potential, highlighting the Bulgarian's rapid progress through the junior categories.

Mekies also made clear that Red Bull sees Tsolov as a future Formula 1 driver, with his new role intended to prepare him for a full-time seat: “Our focus in 2027 will be on giving him the experience, tools and support he needs to be ready to race in F1 next.”

Tsolov, meanwhile, welcomed the opportunity and reiterated his ambition to reach the Formula 1 grid: “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.”

The Bulgarian also explained how he intends to use his new role to prepare for the next stage of his career: “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.”

With the decision now made, Tsolov will have to wait at least another season for his opportunity to become a full-time Formula 1 driver. His appointment as reserve driver for both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls nevertheless provides a route to remain closely involved in the championship.