Nicolò Bulega’s push for a full-time MotoGP move in 2027 is facing growing uncertainty, with Ducati reportedly prioritising other options despite his standout performances in World Superbikes.
Bulega has long been viewed as a potential candidate for promotion, particularly after stepping in for Marc Márquez during the final rounds of the 2025 MotoGP season and taking part in post-season testing. Those appearances were widely seen as an evaluation of his readiness for the premier class.
However, current indications suggest that Ducati does not consider him its primary choice for a 2027 seat. The Italian manufacturer is instead leaning towards other riders as it plans its future line-up, despite Bulega’s continued development within its system.
The situation is not a reflection of poor form. On the contrary, Bulega has been one of Ducati’s most consistent assets outside MotoGP. He has emerged as a leading figure in World Superbikes, finishing runner-up in consecutive seasons and establishing himself as a title contender.
Source: Crash.net
Ducati has also retained him in a dual role as a Superbike rider and MotoGP test rider, underlining the value it places on his technical feedback and long-term potential.
The challenge lies in the limited number of available seats. Ducati’s MotoGP structure is highly competitive, with only a handful of bikes on the grid and strong demand from both existing riders and rising talents. This has made a clear pathway difficult, even for a rider with Bulega’s credentials.
There are also indications that Ducati may prefer to keep him in World Superbikes, where he remains a central figure in its programme.
As a result, Bulega could be forced to explore opportunities outside the Ducati ecosystem if he is to realise his ambition of racing full-time in MotoGP. Alternative routes, including potential interest from rival manufacturers or satellite teams, may become increasingly important as the 2027 rider market begins to take shape.
For now, Bulega’s MotoGP future remains unresolved. While his talent is not in question, his path to the premier class appears to depend less on performance and more on timing, availability, and the shifting dynamics of the rider market.
