The world of MotoGP is abuzz with speculation as Ducati World Superbike star Nicolo Bulega sets his sights on a premier class seat in 2027. But here's the twist: while Ducati remains his top choice, his manager hints that he might explore other options if a deal doesn’t materialize. Could this rising star be forced to look beyond the Italian manufacturer? And this is the part most people miss: Bulega’s journey to MotoGP is anything but straightforward, with team dynamics, rider contracts, and manufacturer strategies all playing a role.
Since joining Ducati in the Supersport World Championship in 2022, Bulega has been on a meteoric rise. He clinched the title in 2023 and then transitioned to the World Superbike Championship (WSBK), finishing as runner-up in both 2024 and 2025. With his eyes firmly set on the 2026 WSBK title, Bulega is also doubling as Ducati’s test and reserve rider in MotoGP, contributing to the development of their 850cc bike. His familiarity with Pirelli tires and Ducati’s machinery makes him a strong candidate for a full-time MotoGP seat in 2027.
But here's where it gets controversial: despite Ducati’s promise of a 2027 seat, rumors suggest that Marc Marquez and Pedro Acosta could form a dream team at the factory squad, potentially leaving Bulega out in the cold. This has sparked debate among fans and insiders alike. Does Bulega deserve a factory seat, or should he settle for a satellite team? Former WSBK rival Toprak Razgatlioglu certainly thinks so, praising Bulega’s ‘precise riding style’ as a perfect fit for MotoGP. But Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali admits that securing Bulega’s signature will be ‘complicated,’ hinting that a satellite team might be his only option.
If Ducati’s factory team is off the table, where could Bulega turn? The VR46 team, with its ties to Valentino Rossi, seems like a logical choice. However, Rossi’s ‘Plan B’ reportedly favors younger talents like Fermin Aldeguer and David Alonso. Gresini Racing could be another option, especially with Aldeguer’s injury potentially opening a door. Meanwhile, KTM, Aprilia, Honda, and Yamaha might also have seats available, though Bulega’s heart remains with Ducati.
Manager Alberto Martinelli has made it clear: while Ducati is the priority, they won’t hesitate to explore other opportunities if necessary. ‘Nicolo knows the bike, he knows the philosophy,’ Martinelli said. ‘Changing teams and bikes at this stage wouldn’t help his debut. But if we have to, we’ll evaluate it.’
Here’s the burning question: If you were Nicolo Bulega, where would you go if Ducati isn’t an option in 2027? Would you take a satellite seat, or would you consider switching manufacturers entirely? Let us know in the comments below. The MotoGP grid is about to get even more exciting, and Bulega’s next move could be the most talked-about story of the season.
