– Nicolo Bulega has put himself at the center of transfer rumors in the Superbike World Championship with strong performances. However, a move to MotoGP for 2027 is by no means certain yet. His manager Alberto Martinelli emphasizes that even a step without Ducati is not ruled out.
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Bulega is currently experiencing an impressive phase: After two second places in the past Superbike seasons, each beaten only by Toprak Razgatlioglu, he has started the 2026 season strongly. Nine consecutive victories and an overall 13-race winning streak underline his potential.
Decision depends on the “big names”
Despite this form, his MotoGP future remains uncertain. According to Martinelli, this is mainly due to the dynamics of the rider market. “We have to wait until the big names officially announce their intentions,” he explains in an interview with Moto.it.
Only when the top riders have clarified their contracts will the teams deal with filling the second places. This means Bulega is also in a waiting loop, despite his role in Ducati’s MotoGP test team.
Ducati first choice, but no guarantee
Within the process of a possible promotion to the premier class, the Italian brand, for which Bulega also competes in the Superbike World Championship, remains clearly the preferred option. But Martinelli makes it clear that this is not a one-way street.
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“At Ducati, they know that our priority is to stay with them in MotoGP as well,” he says. At the same time, the manager adds: “But it takes two to tango.”
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Manufacturer change not ruled out
This means: Without a concrete offer, remaining within the Ducati structures is not guaranteed. Accordingly, Bulega’s management deliberately keeps options open. Martinelli describes the chance of a MotoGP move with another manufacturer as “difficult, but not impossible.”
Should Ducati not act in time, “contact with other teams can be resumed.” At the same time, he emphasizes that they will not wait indefinitely – a clear signal to potential interested parties and also to Ducati.
Focus remains on the Superbike World Championship title
Regardless of all speculation, the sporting focus remains clear. For Bulega, the current Superbike season comes first. “Nicolo is a professional and has great determination,” says Martinelli. “He knows that winning the Superbike World Championship will put him among the top riders in motorsport.”
With his current form, exactly this goal seems within reach and could also be the decisive step to finally recommend himself for a MotoGP promotion.
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