F1 Sensation Nikola Tsolov Set for Early F2 Debut Amid Red Bull Shake-Up!
In a stunning twist of fate within the high-octane world of Formula 1, rising star Nikola Tsolov, a prodigious talent nurtured under the Red Bull driver development program, is gearing up for an unexpected early debut in Formula 2. The 18-year-old Bulgarian racer, who recently finished as the runner-up in the fiercely competitive F3 championship, is poised to make waves as he joins Campos Racing for the final two rounds of the 2025 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Tsolov’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. After a lackluster start in 2023, where he ranked 23rd, he made a spectacular comeback in 2024, finishing 11th before clinching second place this past season. This remarkable progression has not gone unnoticed, leading to his selection for the Red Bull program in November 2024, following a strategic departure from the Alpine team.
The urgency for Tsolov’s entry into F2 comes on the heels of a major shake-up at Red Bull. Pepe Marti, the original Campos driver, has made a surprise switch to Formula E, leaving the team scrambling for a replacement with just two rounds remaining. With Marti’s new obligations beginning on December 6, coinciding with the F2 season finale, Campos Racing swiftly tapped Tsolov to fill the void alongside fellow Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad, who is also preparing for his own leap to F1 in 2026.
Tsolov’s excitement is palpable as he prepares for his debut. “It’s a pleasant surprise to be doing the last two rounds in F2 already this year! I’m grateful to Campos and Red Bull for their belief in me! I’m working extremely hard and feel ready for the step,” he expressed, emphasizing his eagerness to absorb as much experience as possible before the pivotal 2026 season.
Adrian Campos Jr., the team principal, praised Tsolov’s opportunity, stating, “This represents a fantastic chance for Nikola to adapt to the category in real race conditions. We are ensuring he arrives as well-prepared as possible for Lusail, which will mark his first outing in an FIA Formula 2 car.”
As Tsolov and Lindblad gear up for this intense finale in the desert, all eyes will be on the duo to see if they can deliver a spectacular performance that will set the stage for their future in the sport. The countdown to Qatar is on, and the motorsport world is buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying showdown! Will Tsolov rise to the occasion and prove that he is ready for the big leagues? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the future of Formula 1 is brighter than ever with talents like Nikola Tsolov on the horizon!
