Nicolo Bulega, the current leader in the WorldSBK title race, has signed a contract extension with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team. However, his future holds more than just racing as he secures a role as an official test rider for Ducati in MotoGP™ starting in 2026. This opportunity will see him working alongside Michele Pirro to develop the new Desmosedici for the forthcoming 2027 regulations change.
Bulega’s journey in motorcycle racing began when he clinched the 2015 JuniorGP™ Championship title. Progressing through Moto3™ and Moto2™, he later made a shift to WorldSSP before joining the factory WorldSBK team. His impressive debut victory and subsequent wins have elevated him to the top of the standings, currently leading the Championship ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu.
Expressing his excitement about the new role, Bulega emphasized the significance of becoming a Ducati test rider for MotoGP. He sees this opportunity as a dream come true and aims to make the most of it to gain valuable experience within the Ducati realm. While focusing on his current commitments in Superbike, Bulega remains open to possibilities that may unfold in due time.
Looking ahead, there are aspirations for Bulega to transition to MotoGP full-time. Ducati Lenovo team manager, Davide Tardozzi, hinted at potential future collaborations with Bulega, highlighting his expertise with Pirelli tires, which will be crucial for the development of the 2027 MotoGP machine.
Gigi Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse’s general manager, commended Bulega’s talent and welcomed him into the MotoGP family. He acknowledged Bulega’s growth and potential, emphasizing the importance of his role in adapting the Desmosedici GP to Pirelli tires. This new venture serves as a testament to Ducati’s confidence in Bulega’s abilities and signifies a significant milestone in his career.
As Bulega embarks on testing duties alongside his WorldSBK campaign, the 25-year-old rider will be closely monitored by Ducati. His dual responsibilities signify a busy period ahead, where he will strive to excel in both roles and further solidify his collaboration with the prestigious Italian manufacturer.
In the competitive world of MotoGP, the addition of Bulega to Ducati’s test team marks a strategic move that could potentially shape the future landscape of the sport. With his proven track record and dedication, Bulega’s journey from WorldSBK leader to MotoGP test rider signifies a promising trajectory in his career, offering a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of motorcycle racing.
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