Nikola Tsolov has completed his first laps in a Formula 1 (F1) car after taking part in a Testing of Previous Cars outing with Racing Bulls at Imola.
The Red Bull Junior Team driver drove the VCARB02 on Thursday and completed 690km during the test day. The run marked an important milestone for the Bulgarian, who currently leads the Formula 2 Drivers’ Championship ahead of Round 10 at Monza.
Reflecting on his first experience in F1 machinery, Tsolov said he was delighted with the day and grateful to Racing Bulls and Red Bull for the opportunity.
“First TPC day in a Formula 1 car done, and I’m super happy with how today went. 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.”
“It’s something I’ve been working towards my whole life, so to finally experience it is pretty incredible. I still don’t think I’ve fully comprehended what we achieved today, but I enjoyed every lap and hopefully I’ll get the chance to add some more kilometers soon.”
Permane praises Tsolov’s first F1 outing
Racing Bulls Team Principal Alan Permane also praised Tsolov after his first run in an F1 car, highlighting how quickly the Bulgarian adapted.
Permane said the test formed part of Racing Bulls’ wider junior driver development programme, designed to give young drivers mileage and experience in an F1 environment.
“Today was a really positive step for Nikola. He adapted quickly to the car and showed the composure you want to see from a driver taking on an F1 car for the first time.”
“The outing is part of the ongoing development plan the team runs for its junior drivers, giving them the tools, the mileage, and the environment to develop. We’ve seen time and again what this pathway can produce, and it’s days like today that are part of how we keep building it.”
Tsolov heads to Monza as F2 leader
Tsolov’s F1 test came during a strong 2026 campaign in Formula 2. The Bulgarian leads the Drivers’ Championship by 20 points ahead of the next round at Monza.
With his first F1 mileage now complete, Tsolov will return to his F2 title fight looking to build on both his championship advantage and a significant step in his Red Bull junior pathway.
