Nikola Tsolov, widely regarded as Bulgaria’s brightest rising star in international motor racing, took an important step forward in his Formula 2 career after scoring his first championship points during an impressive outing at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar.
The 17-year-old driver delivered a confident and composed performance in the main race, ultimately securing seventh place and marking a significant personal milestone in his debut season.
Tsolov initially crossed the finish line in sixth position after a steady run marked by strong pace and well-managed tyre strategy. However, his race result was adjusted following the application of a five-second time penalty for an unsafe release during his pit stop.
The penalty was issued after the stewards concluded that his team sent him out of the pit box while another car was approaching, forcing a brief hesitation that created a minor safety risk. With the added time, Tsolov dropped one place in the final classification, settling for seventh.
Despite the setback, the Bulgarian racer showcased maturity beyond his years. Once the round of pit stops concluded, Tsolov quickly worked his way back into competitive territory.
His pace remained remarkably consistent as he reeled in several midfield opponents, putting pressure on Juan Pablo Montoya in the closing stages. Although he closed the gap significantly, he did not find the ideal opportunity to attempt a decisive overtake before the end of the race.
The Qatar main race itself saw a dominant display from Victor Martins, who claimed victory with a controlled performance from start to finish. Behind him, Italian driver Leonardo Fornaroli secured second place and, with it, clinched the overall Formula 2 championship title.
Fornaroli’s result capped off a season of exceptional consistency, allowing him to celebrate the championship crown one round early. Alex Dunne delivered a solid drive to complete the podium in third.
For Tsolov, however, the weekend’s result carries particular significance. His first points underscore the progress he has made throughout the season, showing that he is increasingly comfortable competing among the series’ most experienced young talents.
The Bulgarian has faced a steep learning curve in his rookie year, adapting not only to the demands of Formula 2 machinery but also to the heightened level of strategy and racecraft required in the highly competitive environment.
His strong showing in Qatar offers renewed confidence heading into the final round of the championship at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. The season finale, set for next weekend, presents another opportunity for Tsolov to build on his momentum and finish his debut campaign on a high note.
While championship standings may no longer be at stake for him, every position gained and every point scored contributes valuable experience for his long-term development as a driver.
Back home in Bulgaria, Tsolov has become a symbol of hope for motorsport enthusiasts who have long awaited a national figure capable of competing at the highest levels of the sport.
His journey, supported by a growing fan base, has been closely followed across the country. With each race weekend, he strengthens his reputation as a talented young prospect with the potential to rise even further through the single-seater ranks.
The Lusail performance, therefore, stands as more than just a points-scoring result. It represents a breakthrough moment, signalling Tsolov’s readiness to fight consistently within the midfield and, eventually, for higher positions.
While Formula 2 is famously unpredictable and demanding, the Bulgarian driver has shown that perseverance and continuous growth are shaping him into a stronger competitor.
As the championship moves to Abu Dhabi, motorsport fans will be watching closely to see whether Tsolov can carry his Qatar momentum into the final race of the season. With confidence high and experience steadily growing, his debut year in Formula 2 now has its first major milestone — and perhaps more to come in the future.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members