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Formula 2 CEO Bruno Michel is convinced that Nikola Tsolov has the caliber to race in Formula 1, even though the Bulgarian driver is yet to secure a guaranteed spot on next season's grid.
While his chief title rival Rafael Câmara has already sealed his promotion from Formula 2 to Formula 1, making that leap remains a major ambition for Tsolov. Nonetheless, the Bulgarian has received high praise from the man at the helm of the feeder series.
Michel believes "The Bulgarian Lion" is fully prepared for the next step, though he admitted that readiness alone is no guarantee of a seat for 2027.
"Yes, I think he is ready, although I don't know whether he will be in Formula 1 next year," Michel told reporters, as quoted by GMM.
The F2 boss highlighted Tsolov's consistency and his wheel-to-wheel title battle with Câmara as clear proof of how quickly and seamlessly both rookies have adapted to the category.
Haas have already confirmed the signing of Câmara on a multi-year contract starting next season. Tsolov, meanwhile, continues to be linked with Racing Bulls, where Liam Lawson's future is also yet to be finalized.
Michel's backing adds significant weight to the Bulgarian's credentials, but coming from outside the team making the final decision, it does not automatically mean Red Bull will hand him a seat in their lineup.
That distinction is crucial at this stage of the driver market: a stellar junior season proves a driver's undeniable talent, but it does not automatically create an opening at the pinnacle of motorsport.
The next decisive move regarding Tsolov's career rests with the Red Bull hierarchy. Until then, delivering strong performances on track remains his most persuasive argument.
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