Setback for Nikola Tsolov? The Race: Lawson closing in on Racing Bulls stay

The battle for a Racing Bulls seat in 2027 has taken a new turn. According to The Race’s November 9 report, Liam Lawson is moving closer to a new deal, potentially delaying Nikola Tsolov’s debut as a full-time Formula 1 driver. The publication says final approval from Red Bull’s main shareholders is still pending. According to The Race, an official driver line-up announcement is expected before the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Brazil strengthens Lawson’s case

Lawson used the Interlagos weekend to demonstrate his value. He started third, passed eventual winner Lando Norris and briefly ran second. He was classified seventh after Charles Leclerc received a penalty.

Reuters notes that this was his 15th points finish in 20 grands prix this season. That consistency makes dropping him a difficult decision for a team fighting to lead the midfield. Lawson himself has highlighted Alan Permane’s support, while acknowledging that his future depends on a large organisation.

Tsolov remains part of the dilemma

Even before Brazil, Formula 1’s official website described the situation as three candidates for two seats: Lawson, Arvid Lindblad and Tsolov. With Isack Hadjar confirmed alongside Max Verstappen at the senior team, there is no vacancy there to ease the selection dilemma.

The case for Tsolov centres on the purpose of the junior programme: giving the next generation an opportunity at Racing Bulls. The Bulgarian has already accumulated mileage in an older F1 car at Imola and made his first free practice appearance in Mexico. Those steps have put him firmly in contention for promotion.

A reserve role instead of an immediate debut?

The Race outlines a possible outcome in which Lawson and Lindblad remain the race drivers, while Tsolov becomes a reserve and participates in four rookie practice sessions. This is a possible scenario, not an announced programme for Tsolov.

The publication also mentions an idea of guaranteeing the Bulgarian a seat for 2028, but says that option is not thought to be under serious consideration. There is currently no basis for treating such an arrangement as a fact.

What does this mean for his chances?

The latest indications suggest a more difficult route to a full-time seat as early as next year. They do not, however, mean that Red Bull is giving up on Tsolov. If a reserve role is chosen, the specific testing and racing opportunities attached to it will matter.

The central question remains whether Racing Bulls will prioritise Lawson’s proven results or open a seat for the next talent from its academy. As of November 9, there is still no official answer.