Jorge Lorenzo says Ducati are ‘preparing’ to place Nicolo Bulega at MotoGP team in 2027

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Nicolo Bulega is back in action for Ducati at the season-ending Valencia Grand Prix this weekend. He’s once again filling in for the injured Marc Marquez.

Bulega impressed on his debut in Portugal, finishing 15th in the Grand Prix to score a point. He’d only tested the bike briefly in Jerez before heading to Portimao.

Next year, Bulega will continue in the World Superbikes championship, where he’s now the overriding favourite after title holder Toprak Razgatlioglu moved to Pramac.

But alongside that campaign, Bulega will join Ducati’s test team. Luigi Dall’Igna wants to utilise his experience on Pirelli tyres ahead of MotoGP’s transition to the Italian rubber in 2027.

Jorge Lorenzo says Nicolo Bulega will race for Ducati satellite team in 2027

Naturally, Bulega’s entry into the MotoGP world, so soon after Razgatlioglu’s high-profile switch, has ignited speculation that he could soon race in the series full-time.

Speaking on the Duralavita YouTube channel, Jorge Lorenzo predicted that Bulega would join a Ducati satellite team for the 2027 season. VR46 have a ‘multi-year agreement’ in place with the world champions, while Gresini may seek a renewal before their deal expires in 12 months.

Bulega used to be part of the VR46 academy before leaving at the end of 2019, but says his relationship with Valentino Rossi is still strong. Ironically, Gresini’s Moto2 squad was his next destination.

“In my opinion, Ducati will put him on a satellite team in 2027,” said Lorenzo. “They are preparing for his arrival.”

Bulega was also linked with Aprilia earlier this year amid uncertainty over Jorge Martin’s future. That suggests he may have offers from elsewhere on the grid too.

What has Nicolo Bulega said about moving to MotoGP in 2027?

Bulega isn’t ‘enjoying’ racing for Ducati because he can’t ride the bike naturally. But that should change as he becomes more comfortable on their MotoGP equipment.

Razgatlioglu’s move has influenced Bulega, who says he’d ‘especially like’ to make the switch in 2027 when he can stay on more familiar tyres. His former WSBK rival will spend a year on the Michelins.

There will naturally be significant competition for any Ducati seats given the brand’s recent dominance. But Fermin Aldeguer’s potential factory promotion could open up a spot at Gresini, while the future of both VR46 riders is uncertain after a somewhat underwhelming showing this year.