In the Red Bull Rookies Cup, pretty much yes. I believe the riders are only responsible for travel/lodging.....?
Something like that. Someone (HPPT?) posted an article recently of the F1 equivalent that gave some insight into the program. I assume the RBRC is very similar. If you have no other path to GP though, it's obviously worth it.
I am friend’s with a prominent former Red Bull graduate on the car side. We’ve talked about his deal thoroughly and he was always smart enough to make sure his contracts (with Mercedes or BMW depending on series) were for X amount and always made sure not to make a bunch of noise. He was never bothered by Helmut to pay anything back. Also, he missed his shot at F1 even though he had Red Bull backing. One guy was Swiss and had the country basically pay for his seat and the French kid had Total pay for his seat.
Great job for Rocco! From what I saw on his social media, he had the fastest lap time of the group on the 2nd day....although not totally clear on whether that was just from the group that was out there at the same time, or from all the kids there. He seemed pretty happy with it, judging by his reaction I'm sure he was nervous as hell since he was the last one to get picked. www.facebook.com/MotoAmerica/videos/2484773251846068/