Date Set for Nikola Tsolov's Formula 1 Test

Bulgarian Formula 2 driver Nikola Tsolov is set to have his first Formula 1 test on August 27 at the Imola circuit. While not yet officially confirmed by Racing Bulls, the news has been reported by media outlets in Italy and France, citing sources within the team.

Tsolov will drive Racing Bulls' 2025 car, the VCARB02, with the objective of completing at least 300 kilometers. This is a crucial step towards obtaining a Formula 1 Super Licence, which would allow him to participate in one of this season's Friday practice sessions.

Tsolov will share the track with Racing Bulls' official drivers, Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad, who will be participating in the team's final filming day of the year. The pair will be permitted to drive a combined total of 200 kilometers in the team's current car, the VCARB03, at the Italian circuit.

Earlier this year, Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer confirmed that Tsolov, who currently leads the Formula 2 standings, would take part in a TRS test for the team. The Testing of Previous Cars (TRS) program allows young drivers to test with older-spec cars as part of their preparation for Formula 1.

Until recently, the rule stipulated that these tests must use cars that are at least two years old. However, due to the significant technical regulation changes coming to Formula 1 in 2026, teams are now permitted to use 2025-spec cars—the last of the 'ground effect' era—for these tests.