Fernando Alonso allegedly left Nikola Tsolov facing serious financial difficulties due to a restrictive contract. Red Bull is now reportedly helping the Formula 2 star out of the crisis.
Nikola Tsolov is regarded as one of the brightest talents in Red Bull’s junior programme and could soon make the step up to Formula 1. However, according to Formula 1 insider Ralf Bach, the Bulgarian has been dealing with significant financial problems behind the scenes.
Two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso is said to have played a key role. Before joining Red Bull’s junior programme, Tsolov was part of Alonso’s driver management programme.
Tsolov reportedly still paying off debts
Speaking on the F1-Insider.com YouTube channel, Bach claimed that Tsolov had signed an extremely unfavourable contract with his former management.
“Back then, Helmut Marko practically bought him out of Alonso’s programme. What I’ve been told is that he had a ruthless, restrictive contract with the young driver, meaning he is still paying off debts today,” the Formula 1 expert said.
According to Bach, Tsolov is still suffering financially from that agreement. Red Bull is now reportedly supporting the Bulgarian. “They have taken him on and are helping him wherever they can. According to my information, without Red Bull he would have been almost bankrupt,” Bach added.
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Red Bull a lifeline for Tsolov?
Bach believes Tsolov’s performances on track are even more impressive considering the circumstances. The young driver has delivered a series of strong and consistent performances in Formula 2, putting himself firmly in contention for a future Formula 1 promotion. He has already won six races and currently leads the championship.
“He is very quick, he hardly makes any mistakes and is incredibly consistent,” Bach said. At the same time, the youngster may also be dealing with enormous pressure away from the track. “Racing under those circumstances, with concerns about your financial future, is not easy at all.”
If Red Bull decides to promote Tsolov to Formula 1, it could also have consequences for Liam Lawson. The New Zealander would likely have to give up his seat at Racing Bulls.
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