Teen racing sensation Nikola Tsolov has set the Formula 2 world alight with a stunning debut podium finish, marking a historic moment for Bulgaria. Just three races into his F2 career, the 19-year-old prodigy is proving he’s a force to reckon with, following a stellar season as the runner-up in Formula 3. Tsolov’s meteoric rise is not just about personal achievement; it symbolizes a breakthrough for his nation in the competitive realm of motorsport.
The young driver, stepping in for Pepe Marti at Campos Racing, couldn’t contain his excitement after clinching third place in Abu Dhabi. “Yeah, it feels good to be honest,” Tsolov exclaimed, reflecting on the long-awaited milestone. Despite high expectations from earlier races—where he anticipated a podium in Qatar—he expressed relief and satisfaction in finally achieving his goal.
Tsolov’s journey has not been without its challenges. As he raced in Abu Dhabi, the competition at the front proved fierce, with the leaders pulling away early on. However, Tsolov managed to maintain his position, demonstrating impressive pace and resilience. “I managed to keep a good enough pace to stay in third,” he remarked, showcasing his determination and focus on future races.
His debut in F2 was not only a test of speed but also a lesson in adaptation. Tsolov, who joined the grid later than most of his competitors, has shown remarkable promise, qualifying well in Qatar and finishing seventh in the sprint race. “I thought I was well prepared and I had a lot of confidence in myself,” he admitted, though he was not entirely satisfied with his initial performance. Recognizing the experience gap with his competitors, he embraced the learning curve, stating, “These guys have done 12 rounds, and they know the car very well.”
As Tsolov looks ahead to his first full season in Formula 2, his ambitions are clear. His sights are set on consistent top-three finishes, inspired by the success of his teammate Fornaroli. “There is definitely stuff to work on in both departments,” he noted, emphasizing the untapped potential within himself and the Campos Racing team.
The podium finish in Abu Dhabi is not just a personal triumph for Tsolov; it’s a monumental achievement for Bulgaria, marking the country’s first-ever Formula 2 podium. Tsolov feels the weight of this historic moment and the support of his nation behind him. “Whole Bulgaria is looking at me,” he said, conveying his pride and the collective hope for his future in motorsport, specifically in his pursuit of Formula 1.
With the momentum from this podium finish, Tsolov is already plotting his path for 2026. “In the end, my goal is next year,” he stated, acknowledging the importance of the lessons learned in Abu Dhabi. His composed approach and dedication to improvement are evident as he gears up for a competitive season ahead.
This young star’s partnership with Campos Racing will continue, providing a solid foundation as he navigates the challenges of F2. “It feels like a whole new journey but I already knew them from before,” he mentioned, appreciating the familial atmosphere of the team. Tsolov’s synergy with fellow racer Arvid Lindblad has also been beneficial, as they shared knowledge and strategies during their overlapping time in the series.
As Tsolov embarks on this thrilling journey, the motorsport community watches with bated breath. His journey is just beginning, and if his recent performance is any indication, the world will soon be hearing a lot more from this rising star. Will Nikola Tsolov be the next name to break into Formula 1? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this young driver is ready to make waves in the racing world.
