Red Bull map out clear F1 2028 route for 'exceptional talent'

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has clearly indicated that Nikola Tsolov will be on the F1 grid in 2028.

The announcement comes after Racing Bulls confirmed on Wednesday that Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will remain its race line-up for 2027, closing off the only seat available for Tsolov in the short term.

Instead, the 19-year-old Bulgarian will spend next year on an extensive programme combining simulator work, Testing of Previous Cars outings and mandatory rookie first practice sessions, a pathway Red Bull has previously used to prepare its juniors.

Tsolov, who moved from the Alpine Academy into the Red Bull junior setup for 2025, is currently fighting for the Formula 2 title in his first full season at that level.

Mekies has made clear that the timeline for 2027 is explicitly about preparation rather than competition.

"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."

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Tsolov - 'My ambition is clear'

Tsolov himself has framed his upcoming reserve role as the final step before reaching the grid.

Expressing his obvious delight with his position for next year, Tsolov added: "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."