Here is a stunning opportunity for Nikola Tsolov, who is about to make his Formula 1 race weekend debut by driving for Racing Bulls in Free Practice 1 at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
It is a thoroughly deserved reward for a brilliant 2026 Formula 2 campaign. The Bulgarian driver currently sits second in the standings, boasting six victories and nine total podiums with only two rounds remaining in the season.
Running Nikola in FP1 is an important step in his development within the Red Bull Junior Programme,
For this 60-minute outing at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Tsolov is set to step in and replace Liam Lawson. This runout follows his very first test with the team back in August at Imola.
Naturally, the 19-year-old is thrilled about taking such a massive step forward on a Grand Prix weekend.
“A big thank you to VCARB for giving me this opportunity in Mexico,” Tsolov said. “Following my test with the team at Imola in August, I’m excited to take this next step, build on that experience and learn more about the car and the current regulations. I’ll focus on making the most of the session, working closely with the team and providing useful feedback.”
VCARB Team Principal Alan Permane also emphasized the significance of the upcoming session for the young driver's career.
“Running Nikola in FP1 is an important step in his development within the Red Bull Junior Programme,” Permane stated. “It reflects our commitment to nurturing emerging talent and giving our junior drivers valuable track time and the support they need to learn and develop. Having already worked with Nikola at Imola, we’re looking forward to seeing him build on that experience in Mexico and to the feedback he can provide to help support our preparations for the weekend.”
