Red Bull Junior Nikola Tsolov to Make F2 Debut in Final Two Rounds

Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov is set to make an early debut in the final two rounds of the 2025 Formula 2 season, replacing Pepe Martí who has moved to Formula E. This unexpected promotion offers Tsolov valuable experience ahead of his full F2 campaign in 2026, where he will race with Campos Racing alongside Arvid Lindblad.

Why it matters:

Nikola Tsolov's early entry into Formula 2 is a significant step in his Red Bull junior career, providing him with crucial real-world experience against top-tier competition. This accelerated debut could fast-track his development, offering a preview of his potential and allowing him to adapt to the F2 car and race conditions earlier than anticipated. For Red Bull, it's an opportunity to evaluate one of their promising talents in a more demanding environment.

The Details:

• Early Promotion: Tsolov will compete in the Qatar and Abu Dhabi rounds of the 2025 F2 season.
• Team and Teammate: He will drive for Campos Racing, where he is already confirmed for the full 2026 season. His teammate will be fellow Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad, providing a strong benchmark.
• F3 Performance: Tsolov finished second in the Formula 3 season, demonstrating his capability and readiness for the next step up the single-seater ladder.
• Replacement Role: He steps in for Spanish driver Pepe Martí, who recently signed with the Cupra Kiro Formula E team for the upcoming season, marking an unexpected opening for Tsolov.
• Tsolov's Reaction: "It’s a pleasant surprise to be making my FIA Formula 2 debut already this year for the final two rounds! I’m very grateful to Campos Racing and Red Bull for their trust and for giving me this opportunity. I’ve been working extremely hard and feel ready to take this step. I’m looking forward to learning as much as possible and gaining valuable experience ahead of 2026.”
• Team Principal's View: Adrian Campos, Team Principal, emphasized that this is a "fantastic opportunity to begin his adaptation to the category—and to do so in real race conditions." He also thanked Pepe Martí for his contributions.

What's next:

This two-round stint will be invaluable for Tsolov's preparation for his full 2026 Formula 2 season. He will gain firsthand experience with the car, tires, and race strategies, which could give him a significant edge when the 2026 season officially begins. Observers will be keen to see how he performs against established F2 drivers in these high-pressure, late-season races, offering an early glimpse into the Red Bull junior's potential for future success.