Italian rider Nicolo Bulega is preparing for a pivotal 2026 season, aiming to capture the World Superbike championship while embracing a unique schedule that includes testing in MotoGP. Having narrowly lost last season’s World Superbike title to BMW’s Toprak Razgatlioglu, Bulega is confident about leveraging Ducati’s Panigale V4 to claim the top spot. His strategy centers on navigating the challenges of competing across two elite motorcycle racing categories without hesitation.
Rising Favorite to Lead World Superbike and Support Ducati’s MotoGP Development
With Razgatlioglu moving to MotoGP, Bulega emerges as the strong favorite for the World Superbike title. Simultaneously, he is slated to play a key role in Ducati’s efforts to develop their next-generation 850cc MotoGP machine for 2027, conducting multiple test sessions throughout the year. This dual focus places Bulega at the heart of both racing worlds, highlighting his adaptability and importance to Ducati’s future plans.
Adjusting to Different Bike Challenges: Past Experience and Future Advantages
Bulega’s MotoGP experience began last season when he replaced an injured Marc Marquez in the final two rounds, managing to score points at the Portuguese and Valencia Grands Prix. Despite impressing, he struggled with adapting to Michelin tires used in MotoGP, which contributed to a sprint race crash in Portugal.
Looking ahead, Bulega anticipates the challenge will lessen as both MotoGP and World Superbike will switch to Pirelli tires starting in 2027, easing the transition between the two racing categories significantly. Regarding the upcoming changes, Bulega explained to Speedweek,
“Perhaps it will be the case,”
and added,
“But it will help me that I’ll then be testing the MotoGP bike with Pirelli tyres. Right now, my feeling for the motorcycles is so different, mainly because they use Michelin in MotoGP. That makes a big difference. If both bikes are on Pirelli, that will help me a bit.”
Testing Commitments Could Lead to Unexpected Race Opportunities
Bulega is scheduled for at least three test sessions on the GP27 prototype this year to support Ducati’s development efforts. These outings will enhance his capability to alternate between World Superbike and MotoGP machines effectively. However, his role could expand beyond testing if Ducati requires a replacement rider during the season. Gresini has already confirmed Fermin Aldeguer will miss the Sepang test due to a femur fracture, creating uncertainty over his participation.
Since Michele Pirro is focused on the 2027 project and may not be the preferred substitute, Bulega could be called upon to race on MotoGP machinery equipped with Michelin tires, a return to conditions he is still adjusting to. His recent experience with the GP25 bike, which Aldeguer is scheduled to ride, makes him a likely candidate should an opportunity arise.
What Bulega’s Ambitions Mean for His Racing Legacy and Fans
Nicolo Bulega’s presentation of ambition and versatility sets the stage for a remarkable 2026, as he balances chasing a World Superbike crown with contributing to Ducati’s MotoGP innovation. This blend of high-stakes competition and technical development underscores his growing significance in the motorcycle racing world. The upcoming season may prove crucial for Bulega, potentially cementing his status as one of the sport’s most dynamic and multi-talented riders, capable of mastering the demands of both World Superbike and MotoGP.
