Nikola Tsolov named Red Bull reserve driver for 2027

Nikola Tsolov will be Red Bull’s reserve driver in 2027 and could stand in for Max Verstappen or Isack Hadjar, the team says. The 19-year-old Bulgarian is part of Red Bull’s driver programme and currently competes in Formula 2.

Tsolov finished second in the 2025 Formula 3 championship. Red Bull says he has won six races in Formula 2 this season and remains in contention for the title. Team principal Laurent Mekies praised Tsolov’s development, performances and willingness to learn.

The appointment adds a reserve role for Tsolov, but does not settle the line-up at Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls. The BBC reported in October that Lawson, Arvid Lindblad and Tsolov were being considered for its two 2027 seats, with no decision yet made. Racing Bulls’ unresolved driver choices

Red Bull has already confirmed Hadjar as Verstappen’s team-mate for 2027. Tsolov’s reserve appointment means he is available to replace either driver if needed; it is not an announcement that he will race in a Grand Prix.