Marco Bezzecchi
Rumours are suggesting that Nicolo Bulega is heading to MotoGP in 2027, and the World Superbikes paddock might not be too disheartened about that.
The Italian is utterly dominating WSBK this season. Bulega has won all 21 races so far, with his Ducati teammate Iker Lecuona finishing second in the last 18 races.
Such performances have attracted the attention of the MotoGP paddock. The 26-year-old is desperate to land a seat on the grid for 2027, and reports suggest Bulega will join VR46 next year, partnering with Fermin Aldeguer.
‘Everyone’ in World Superbikes has ‘had enough’ of Nicolo Bulega
Bulega has been eyeing a seat within Ducati’s setup in MotoGP for some time. He served as Marc Marquez’s replacement for the final two races in 2025 and has been developing the 850cc bike with Pirelli tyres for 2027.
His preparations are in full swing for his VR46 move, and the WSBK paddock may be eagerly awaiting that day. Neil Hodgson says ‘everyone’ has had enough of Bulega’s dominance.
He said on the Gas It Out podcast: “I spoke to quite a few people, quite a few team managers, and obviously stating the obvious, the fact that everyone’s had enough really.
“If you look at Yamaha, they’re doing the fastest laps on the Yamaha right now, they’re going faster than they’ve ever gone. Yamaha spend a lot of money to go racing in World Superbikes, and they are sort of battling outside the top 10, which is hard to believe.
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“Like Locatelli is a good rider. Remy Gardner, as we know, is a really good rider. They’re not on TV at any point, are they? You don’t see them.
“Honda’s another story. They’re still trying to figure out what’s going on, but all the other manufacturers, everyone’s sort of had enough.
“So, there’s big talks of changes for next year. The fuel flow system doesn’t work. Ducati are ahead of that. Ducati have got their own fuel, they’ve worked closely with Shell.
“So, as soon as they are, let’s say, dragged back a little bit by the fuel flow… they’re playing with it. I don’t think they’re even close to being penalised, to be honest.”
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Nicolo Bulega from height to career
Which series will benefit more from Nicolo Bulega’s move: MotoGP or Superbikes?
Bulega has run away with this year's WSBK championship
VR46 set to impose restrictions on Nicolo Bulega in 2027
Joining VR46 is a great opportunity for the Italian next season. Bulega remains in contact with Valentino Rossi, who will prove to be an excellent mentor and team leader.
However, Bulega may start the season on the back foot. Firstly, teammate Aldeguer will receive factory machinery with VR46 in 2027, giving him a technical advantage.
What’s more is that Bulega will not be allowed to bring his crew chief from WSBK to VR46 next year. He will have to adjust to a new bike and new personnel by his side in the garage.
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