Nikola Tsolov recorded the 12th-fastest time in his first official Formula 1 session, delivering a strong performance in the opening free practice ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix. The Bulgarian, known as the "Bulgarian Lion," set his best lap at 1:19.

Bulgarian racing driver Nikola Tsolov will make his Formula 1 debut in the first free practice session for the Mexico City Grand Prix on Friday, driving for Racing Bulls in place of Liam Lawson, the team announced. The session at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez marks another step toward Tsolov’s ambition of becoming a full-time Formula 1 driver.