Nicolo Bulega is finally moving up. The Italian rider, currently dominating WorldSBK, is set to join the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team from the 2027 MotoGP season. This announcement completes the Tavullia-based squad's lineup, which had already secured Fermin Aldeguer, with both riders mounted on Ducati Desmosedici GP machinery.
Bulega is no stranger to the MotoGP paddock. He previously experienced the premier class as a Ducati test rider and even filled in for two races at the end of last season with the Ducati Lenovo Team. But in 2027, he will make his full-time debut in the top class, a move that feels like a homecoming given his roots in the VR46 Riders Academy from a young age.
Bulega's journey to MotoGP has been anything but straightforward. Before finding success in production-based racing, he competed in Moto3 and Moto2 with the VR46 team. However, his career peaked in WorldSSP, where he clinched the world title in 2023 with 16 wins and 10 pole positions. That success earned him a promotion to WorldSBK in 2024, where he immediately finished as runner-up in his rookie season. This year, he has been dominant, leading the championship with 26 wins from 27 races so far.
The decision to move to MotoGP was made mid-season, but Bulega admits it has been a long-held dream. "Getting to MotoGP is a dream," he said. "I chose this team because I have a strong emotional bond. I grew up with the VR46 Riders Academy, so I know everyone here very well. This step feels more personal and easier." He also stressed that he does not want to set lofty targets for his first season, preferring to take it race by race and deliver his best performance.
Team Director Alessio Salucci welcomed Bulega warmly. "We have known him for years; he started his career with us," Salucci said. "Now we are ready to achieve great things together. He has proven himself by dominating WorldSBK, and I think he is ready to start this new journey with maturity." Similarly, Ducati Corse General Manager Gigi Dall'Igna praised Bulega as a talented rider with a bright future. "Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is the ideal environment for his adaptation to MotoGP," Dall'Igna commented.
Team Manager Pablo Nieto also highlighted that Bulega's experience with WorldSBK tires and testing the Ducati Desmosedici GP will help him adapt quickly. "Next year regulations change, everyone starts from zero," Nieto explained. "We believe he can compete at the highest level." With Bulega and Aldeguer forming the lineup, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team looks ready to become a force to be reckoned with in the 2027 MotoGP season.
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Nicolo Bulega moves to MotoGP in 2027 with VR46 Ducati. Pablo Nieto believes regulation changes and his WorldSBK experience make the transition as easy as possible.
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