Jul.2 (GMM) Red Bull is preparing to give rising Formula 2 star Nikola Tsolov his first proper taste of modern Formula 1 machinery.
As speculation continues about the Bulgarian’s chances of taking Liam Lawson’s place at Racing Bulls for 2027, team CEO Peter Bayer has now revealed that a Test of Previous Cars (TPC) outing is already being planned.
“We’re currently considering having him undergo a TPC test, because he needs a license to drive in Friday practice sessions,” Bayer said.
“He’s still lacking a few kilometres. And we’re planning that for the autumn.”
The plan would allow Tsolov to obtain the licence required for Formula 1 practice appearances before making his expected FP1 debut later in the season.
The news follows Tsolov’s dominant Formula 2 victory at the Red Bull Ring, which intensified calls for the 19-year-old to be promoted more quickly.
However, Bayer also cooled fresh speculation that a 2027 Racing Bulls seat has already been decided.
“Those are just rumours,” he insisted.
“He’s doing a great job and is a huge talent that we naturally have on our radar. But we’ve only had seven races so far, and Liam and Arvid are doing just as great a job. So it’s not an issue at all right now.”
If Tsolov wins this year’s Formula 2 title, however, Red Bull will face a decision, as champions are not permitted to remain in the category.
