World Superbike title contender Nicolo Bulega has made a strong first impression in his debut test of Ducati’s 850cc MotoGP prototype, setting an encouraging benchmark during a private session at Mugello.
The Italian rider completed a limited run of 20 laps on the new machine, which is being developed for the 2027 MotoGP regulation changes. Despite the restricted running time, he was immediately competitive on track.
Bulega’s best lap of 1m 47.2s placed him at the top of the timesheets, finishing 0.4 seconds quicker than Ducati test rider Michele Pirro and 1.3 seconds ahead of KTM’s Dani Pedrosa, both of whom have far more MotoGP experience.
The lap times were recorded on a Pirelli-shod prototype as manufacturers continue early development work ahead of the major technical overhaul set for 2027, which includes a switch to 850cc engines.
Source: iMotorbike News
For reference, current Mugello qualifying times in the 1000cc era are still significantly faster, with Marc Marquez holding the benchmark lap record at 1m 44.169s, while Pecco Bagnaia set the race lap record at 1m 45.770s.
Ducati has been gradually integrating Bulega into its MotoGP development programme, with the Italian combining his World Superbike commitments alongside testing duties for the future prototype. His role is expected to grow as the project progresses.
While conditions and limited mileage make early comparisons difficult, Bulega’s performance has been seen as a positive sign for Ducati as it continues shaping its next-generation MotoGP machine.
