Gigi Dall'Igna has admitted that Nicolo Bulega's speed in MotoGP 850cc tests has been 'really good', but he remains cautious about predicting how the Italian will perform in the premier class. Bulega, who has dominated WorldSBK this season, has been testing Ducati's new 850cc machine throughout the year and has impressed the Ducati Corse hierarchy.
Bulega's confidence in WorldSBK has been remarkable. Despite missing the post-race test in Austria due to a left shoulder injury from a crash at Mugello, he still delivered a strong performance at Cremona. Although he finished second in all three races, that was enough to secure the 2026 WorldSBK title at round 10. Such dominance paved the way for his MotoGP ride in 2027.
Dall'Igna described Bulega's path to MotoGP as unusual. “This is not the normal path to go to MotoGP,” he told WorldSBK.com. “But Nicolo did a fantastic job in Supersport, in Superbike, and not only: he did a really great job also on the evolution of the 850cc, next year's machine. We worked quite close with this new bike and we are really happy about the job that he did. We all together took the decision to have him with us in MotoGP next year.”
However, Dall'Igna is not ready to set expectations. “It's difficult to say something about that now,” he said when asked about Bulega's potential in MotoGP. “We have to wait until the Valencia test. But anyway, the lap times that he did in the other race tracks where we tested was really good. So, I think that he can do quite well.”
Interestingly, Bulega's performance on the 850cc bike was a key factor in Ducati's decision. That machine will be the MotoGP bike from next season, and feedback from WorldSBK riders like Bulega is invaluable. It shows Ducati's serious preparation for the new technical regulations.
Meanwhile, the seat Bulega leaves at the Ducati factory WorldSBK team has not been officially announced. However, both Franco Morbidelli and Claudio Domenicali have strongly hinted that the 2017 Moto2 champion will partner Iker Lecuona. If true, Ducati's WorldSBK line-up will undergo a major shake-up.
For Bulega, the MotoGP challenge is clear. He must adapt to a more powerful bike, Michelin tyres, and a busier weekend format. But with full Ducati support and an impressive track record, many are eager to see his performance at the Valencia test. Will he shine immediately? Time will tell.
Baca Juga
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