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Nikola Tsolov completes first Formula 1 test with Racing Bulls at Imola
Formula 2 championship leader Nikola Tsolov has completed his maiden Formula 1 test with Racing Bulls at Imola.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-08-27T19:00:00.000Z - 2 min read
Nikola Tsolov has completed his maiden outing in Formula 1 machinery, driving for Racing Bulls during a Testing of Previous Cars session at Imola on Wednesday. The Formula 2 championship leader has been widely linked with a potential promotion to the Faenza-based squad for the 2027 season, though unlike several of his fellow front-runners in the junior series, he had previously awaited his first major test in current-generation grand prix machinery.
Behind the wheel of the team's VCARB 02 challenger, the young charger covered a substantial distance during the packed Wednesday test. By the end of the day, he had accrued 690 kilometres of running around the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari. Previous regulations mandated a 300-kilometre threshold in older grand prix cars before a competitor could qualify for a free practice licence, but that specific prerequisite has since been removed.
To secure a free practice only certification under current rules, drivers must be over the age of 18, possess a Grade A licence, pass the governing body's theory test, and either complete six Formula 2 races or accumulate 25 super licence points. Pending formal approval from the FIA, the latest milestone opens up the possibility for the youngster to participate in an official practice session for either Red Bull or Racing Bulls before the current campaign concludes.
Both outfits still carry mandatory rookie obligations for the season. Teams are required to field drivers with fewer than two grand prix starts to their name across four separate free practice sessions over the course of the year. Racing Bulls has one remaining rookie slot to fill, while the senior Red Bull squad must complete three such appearances.
Reflecting on his debut running, the championship contender expressed his excitement at finally tasting Formula 1 power. He noted that the experience was difficult to put into words and thanked both the team and the junior development programme for their backing. He added that the achievement had not yet fully sunk in, though he hopes to add further mileage in the near future.
Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane praised the newcomer's approach to the demanding test programme. He highlighted the rapid rate of adaptation and the level of composure demonstrated throughout the day. Permane noted that the outing formed part of the squad's established development framework, which aims to equip rising talents with the necessary environment, mileage and tools to progress toward the top flight.