MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Nicolo Bulega, Ducati's World Superbike star, views his new test rider role for the 2027 regulations as a golden opportunity toward his dream MotoGP debut. Substituting for the injured Marc Marquez, he delivered a solid Portugal debut, finishing 15th for one point despite a sprint crash. Moreover, his Pirelli tire expertise proves invaluable for Ducati amid the series' 2027 supplier switch.
Bulega's Portimao debut highlighted rapid adaptation to the Desmosedici GP25, though the Michelin tires posed the biggest hurdle compared to WSBK Pirellis. Starting 18th, he crashed on lap four of the sprint due to over-aggressive braking a superbike habit but rebounded in the main race with a conservative approach, securing 15th in the closing laps as tires degraded. In-depth analysis reveals impressive Ducati data: his fastest lap came at the end, signaling deep comprehension of the bike. This underscores Bulega's long-term potential, especially with MotoGP's Pirelli transition suiting his strengths.
Next year's test role centers on developing the 850cc bike for 2027, with Bulega leading Pirelli tire trials. Ducati selected him for his superior feel, enabling full tire utilization an edge over Michelin-accustomed riders like Pecco Bagnaia. Sporting director Davide Tardozzi emphasizes its importance for future dominance, given Bulega's 2025 WSBK runner-up finish with 12 wins. Additionally, access to data from teammates like Alex Marquez and Fermin Aldeguer accelerated his Portimao learning, though applying it at 350 km/h remains challenging.
Ahead of this weekend's Valencia GP, Bulega feels more prepared for the circuit last visited four years ago. "Now I know what to expect, front and rear tires," he said, acknowledging Valencia's tight layout demands extra focus without breathing room in MotoGP.
"I'm here just to learn and understand the new things. In a race weekend, pressure is high not like three full test days," he added. Our analysis suggests this performance bolsters his 2027 grid prospects, particularly with Pirelli as the new supplier favoring WSBK riders. Compared to Marc Marquez's 2013 podium debut, Bulega displays strategic patience key to Ducati's success.
Bulega's primary goal remains winning WSBK in 2026 before jumping to MotoGP, but Ducati tests bridge the gap ideally. With internal data support and Pirelli know-how, his outlook shines for a 2027 satellite Ducati seat, potentially disrupting Francesco Bagnaia's internal dominance. Yet, fierce competition from young guns like Pedro Acosta poses risks; Ducati must allocate resources wisely.
Overall, Bulega's move reinforces Ducati's narrative as an Italian talent incubator. He's no mere interim replacement but a long-term investment for the 850cc era. Watch his Valencia showing for further clues on the 2027 dream—now closer than ever. Follow full updates at Sportrik.com/en.
Baca Juga
Marc Marquez akui belum mengendarai Ducati secara otomatis di MotoGP Thailand 2026 dan tertinggal dari Marco Bezzecchi.
Guenther Steiner terkejut dengan cepatnya pasar pembalap MotoGP 2027 jelang seri pembuka musim 2026 di Buriram.
Michele Pirro menerima penalti tiga posisi grid di MotoGP Thailand 2026 setelah insiden menghalangi Alex Marquez saat Practice.
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