Marco Bezzecchi
Nicolo Bulega’s chances of joining the MotoGP grid in 2027 are not likely, according to the World Superbikes paddock.
The Italian is searching for a seat on the MotoGP grid for next season, having replaced Marc Marquez for the final two rounds of 2025. Bulega is Ducati’s test rider for 2026 and has been dominating WSBK, winning the first nine races of the season.
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Such dominance may arguably be grounds for him to join the premier class in 2027. However, his options are limited, with many seats already confirmed for next year.
Bulega’s manager is speaking to Trackhouse Aprilia at Jerez this weekend, among other teams, as they openly explore other manufacturers away from Ducati. But his chances of landing a deal seem unlikely.
WSBK paddock does not think Nicolo Bulega will join MotoGP in 2027
Journalist Valentin Khorounzhiy was recently at the WSBK round at Assen, and he says that the paddock does not think that Bulega will get to MotoGP in 2027.
He said on The Race MotoGP Podcast: “I think the general feeling in the World Superbike paddock, I mean, they’re all still waiting, but the general feeling is more of a no than yes, I think, for 2027.
“And that’s not really got much to do with the way Bulega has carried himself on track this season. He’s done exactly the minimum and the maximum that has been available.
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“The expectation was that he should win every race now that Toprak Razgatlioglu is in a different paddock, and that’s exactly what’s been happening. He has won nine on the trot. He has equalled the series record of 13 consecutive wins.
“His manager will be at Jerez for the MotoGP resumption to negotiate with teams. What we do know and what is being reported and what I think has been confirmed now by the Bulega camp is they are casting a wider net than Ducati.
“Which strongly suggests and corroborates the reporting that the space at Ducati probably doesn’t really exist.”
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Nicolo Bulega from height to career
Why is Ducati not a realistic option for Nicolo Bulega in MotoGP in 2027?
If Bulega is to join MotoGP, it is becoming increasingly likely that it will have to be with another manufacturer. He has seen multiple doors close with Ducati.
The factory team has Marc Marquez and Pedro Acosta lined up for 2027, while Fermin Aldeguer is set to join VR46 alongside Fabio Di Giannantonio. The Italian is receiving interest from other teams, but it is believed that he will stay put.
That leaves Gresini, who are reported to have signed Daniel Holgado from Moto2. Alex Marquez is leaving for KTM in 2027, opening up a seat, but it is unlikely to go to Bulega, with Enea Bastianini being mentioned as the favourite.
Gresini want ‘nothing’ to do with Bulega, as they do not want to field two rookies on the grid for the start of the 850cc era.
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