Red Bull Junior Shake-Up Forces Late Lineup Switch Ahead of Qatar GP
A sudden departure by a driver long associated with the Red Bull junior programme has triggered a noticeable change to the Formula 2 grid for this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix. The reshuffle comes at a crucial moment as the feeder series returns from its extended break for the final stretch of the season.
The catalyst for this shake-up is young Spanish driver Pepe Martí, who has officially left the Red Bull family and the F2 championship earlier than planned. Martí has signed a full-time deal with the Cupra Kiro Formula E team for the 2025/26 season—a major career shift that demands his immediate focus. Since Formula E season 12 begins in December with the São Paulo E-Prix, which directly clashes with the Formula 1 and F2 finale in Abu Dhabi, Martí had no choice but to cut his F2 season short to fully prepare for his new electric racing venture.
Martí’s decision marks the end of a two-year journey in Formula 2, during which he claimed four race victories and proved himself as one of the more consistent rising talents in the Red Bull driver pool. This season, he had been racing alongside fellow Red Bull hopeful Arvid Lindblad under Campos Racing, building a partnership that showcased both drivers’ future potential. But that partnership will not continue into the final races.
Tsolov Steps Up From F3 to Fill the Vacancy
In Martí’s absence, Campos Racing has called up another Red Bull junior talent—Nikola Tsolov—to step into the F2 cockpit for the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Tsolov has been a strong performer in Formula 3 and was already confirmed to race full-time with Campos in Formula 2 in 2026. His promotion, however, has come far sooner than anticipated, giving the Bulgarian youngster an early taste of what awaits him in two years.
The 17-year-old will now join Lindblad in the F2 squad as the series returns from its two-month break, and he hopes to use this unexpected opportunity to showcase his raw pace, adaptability, and readiness for the next stage of his career. For Campos Racing, it is a chance to assess Tsolov’s progress under real race pressure, rather than waiting for the winter tests.
Tsolov Reacts to the Surprise Opportunity
Speaking after the announcement, a visibly motivated Tsolov expressed his gratitude and excitement about the early debut:
“It was a pleasant surprise to be called up for the last two rounds in F2 already this season. I’m extremely grateful to Campos and Red Bull for trusting me and giving me this opportunity. I’ve been working incredibly hard, and I feel prepared for the challenge. My goal is simply to learn as much as possible and gather valuable experience ahead of 2026.”
His statement reflects both the pressure and promise of stepping into a higher category mid-season—especially on a demanding circuit like Lusail, which challenges drivers with its high-speed layout, heavy tyre degradation and unpredictable night-time temperatures.
Campos Racing Reflects on Martí’s Departure
Team principal Adrián Campos Jr. took a moment to acknowledge Martí’s long-standing relationship with the organization, recalling the Spaniard’s early days when he entered single-seater racing through the team’s F4 Spain programme.
“First of all, I want to thank Pepe for all the years we have spent together. From his debut in F4 Spain to his progression through FIA Formula 3 and ultimately Formula 2, we’ve lived unforgettable moments—wins, podiums, and plenty of growth. Everyone at Campos Racing wishes him the very best in his next chapter,” Campos said.
Regarding Tsolov’s unexpected promotion, Campos noted that it offers a prime moment for development:
“For Nikola, this is a fantastic opportunity to begin adapting to Formula 2 machinery in real race conditions. We have already started working intensively with him to ensure he is as ready as possible for Lusail, which will be his first experience driving an FIA Formula 2 car.”
Eyes on Lindblad’s Future
Meanwhile, Lindblad continues to draw interest from the wider F1 paddock. The 17-year-old British driver has been widely tipped as a potential candidate for a future seat either with Racing Bulls or even the main Red Bull Racing team. However, neither outfit has confirmed its full 2026 lineup, keeping speculation high.
As F2 heads into its final two rounds, all eyes will be on how the dynamic between Lindblad and Tsolov unfolds and whether the latter can make an immediate impression. Martí’s exit may have arrived sooner than expected, but it has set the stage for another young Red Bull prospect to rise.
