:strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kly-media-production/medias/5406339/original/022113400_1762560459-000_83DP6A9.jpg "Pol Espargaro Praises Nicolo Bulega's Value for Ducati's MotoGP Testing")
Nicolo Bulega arrives at the WorldSBK round in Cremona with an opportunity to secure the Superbike championship title, while ongoing paddock attention centers on his developmental testing role for Ducati’s upcoming MotoGP motorcycle. Amid circulating rumors regarding his 2027 racing future, Bulega clarified to RiderTua that the prototype 850cc machine currently undergoing testing is not built exclusively for him.
MotoGP Testing and Development Role
Bulega’s recent schedule included a MotoGP test session at Mugello, where he experienced a crash that sidelined him from subsequent tests at the Red Bull Ring, as reported by RiderTua. Addressing commentary from Pol Espargaro regarding a potential 2027 seat, Bulega explained that his presence on the prototype machine stems from contract provisions negotiated with Ducati last year, which established the possibility of test-riding duties rather than a guaranteed race seat.
“A test rider can’t just walk into the garage or track, then ask for a certain component because he feels that component is best suited for him,” Bulega stated, as documented by RiderTua. “I’m not sure that bike was made specifically for me: that bike was made for the factory team riders, and I’m just trying the things they asked me to test.”
Espargaro Outlines Bulega’s Value to Ducati
Pol Espargaro emphasized that Bulega’s current physical condition and natural speed provide a distinct advantage during testing phases, noting that tracks like Mugello, Jerez, and Misano are already familiar to the Italian rider. According to Crash, Espargaro pointed out that Bulega brings immediate readiness to the development process.
“Imagine going to places that he’s actually already been to and already has the information: Mugello, Jerez, Misano,” Espargaro told Crash. “He has a lot of experience and the rider is fast! He is not like me who is already retired. He is a rider who is in his best moment.”
Espargaro added that Bulega’s evaluations will give factory riders a head start when evaluating the limits of the new machinery. “It will also be a great help for the guys at Ducati, for Marc, for Pedro, because they will have a bike that is already ready and a rider who can immediately take the bike to the limit on the first race,” Espargaro stated, as reported by Crash.
Cremona Weekend and Title Focus
Entering the Lombardy weekend, Bulega reported feeling physically fit despite minor back stiffness, noting that the discomfort is negligible and poses no racing hindrance. Alongside his title pursuit, Bulega addressed lighthearted paddock commentary concerning a Lamborghini vehicle provided for his transit to Cremona, confirming to RiderTua that the arrangement involved covering his own fuel costs.