WorldSBK, Sportrik Media - Nicolo Bulega has admitted he is not yet completely satisfied with the 2026-spec Ducati Panigale V4 R, despite topping the opening day of the official WorldSBK pre-season test at Phillip Island.
Ducati introduced an updated version of the Panigale V4 R for 2026, featuring revised aerodynamics, modified chassis characteristics and a double-sided swingarm. However, pre-season running in January was heavily compromised by wet conditions in Spain and Portugal, limiting meaningful dry testing opportunities.
The final winter test at Phillip Island provided the first representative dry running of the year for much of the 2026 World Superbike field. Bulega set the fastest time of the day with a 1:29.345, finishing just under three tenths clear of Axel Bassani. Only Bassani and Marc VDS Ducati rider Sam Lowes joined him in the 1m29s bracket.
“It’s not a bad way to start the week,” Bulega told WorldSBK.com after Day 1.
“It’s important to start like this, especially when you have a new bike. During this winter we didn’t try anything because of the weather, so today was the first true day of testing.
“It was important to ride a lot. I did many laps, so I’m happy. We did a great job and started very well.”
The two-time WorldSBK runner-up stressed that accumulating mileage in dry conditions was crucial to understanding the updated bike’s behaviour, particularly in terms of balance and front-end feedback.
However, Bulega acknowledged that improvements are still required before the race weekend begins.
“I’m quite happy with the setup, but not in every area. We have to try to improve some parts of the bike with the setting,” he explained.
“I think that’s normal, given this is the first day of serious testing. Let’s try to improve for the weekend.”
Despite winning four races from five WorldSBK starts at Phillip Island — including a hat-trick last season — Bulega was cautious about labeling himself as the favourite for the upcoming round.
“I don’t know if I’m the favourite, but this is my favourite track,” he said.
“Last year I had a hat-trick and won my debut WorldSBK race here. Today I started very well, but I think it’s still early to say anything about this weekend.”
With a competitive baseline established yet further refinements needed, Bulega and Ducati will use the remaining test time to fine-tune the 2026 Panigale V4 R ahead of the opening round at one of the Italian rider’s strongest venues on the calendar.
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