Nikola Tsolov completes first F1 test with Racing Bulls at Imola

Nikola Tsolov, the current Formula 2 championship leader, completed his first Formula 1 test with Racing Bulls on Wednesday, August 26, at the Imola circuit. The 19-year-old Bulgarian driver, a member of Red Bull's junior program, drove the team's 2025 VCARB 02 car as part of a Testing of Previous Cars program, covering 690 kilometers in a significant step toward his goal of reaching the pinnacle of motorsport. The test provided Red Bull and Racing Bulls with their first opportunity to evaluate Tsolov in grand prix machinery. He is aiming to graduate from Formula 2 over the winter and secure a seat with Racing Bulls for the 2027 season, where he would compete alongside Liam Lawson or Arvid Lindblad. The outing is a key component of the team's ongoing development plan for its junior drivers. "First TPC day in a Formula 1 car done, and I'm super happy with how today went," Tsolov said. "I really enjoyed every lap and it's difficult to put into words what it means to finally get this opportunity. A massive thank you to VCARB and the Red Bull Junior Team for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.