Nicolo Bulega, once considered a rising star under Valentino Rossi’s guidance, is now tipped for a potential emotional reunion with his former mentor — this time on the biggest stage in motorcycle racing.
After years apart, Bulega’s resurgence in the World Superbike Championship has caught Ducati’s attention. The Italian manufacturer is reportedly preparing a new contract that would see Bulega continue in WorldSBK through 2026, while also preparing him for a step into MotoGP in 2027 with Rossi’s VR46 team, according to GPOne.
A crucial element of the 2027 move is the switch from Michelin to Pirelli tyres in MotoGP — something that plays in Bulega’s favor, as he is already experienced with Pirellis from WorldSBK.
Ducati is said to admire Bulega not just for his impressive on-track performance — he currently leads the WorldSBK standings ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu — but also for his modest, media-shy personality.
Bulega’s journey has come full circle. A decade ago, he was part of the Sky Racing VR46 Team in Moto3 and later Moto2, but he never delivered standout results. Now, he’s thriving in the superbike category and proving the talent Rossi once saw in him.
If he seals a new deal with Ducati and clinches the 2025 WorldSBK title in just his second season, Bulega would be perfectly positioned for a MotoGP comeback — and a heartwarming return to Rossi’s VR46 family.
