After the Jerez test, it seemed like only a formality. But the official confirmation for Nicolò Bulega arrived today: he'll be in Portimão and Valencia in the Ducati Lenovo garage alongside Pecco Bagnaia, replacing Marc Marquez. This is a dream come true and one that, from a certain point of view, completes an almost perfect circle for Bulega. From being a paddock promise to a rider that was literally picked again by Ducati in the Supersport, up to his return in the MotoGP paddock through the front door.
Nicolò was really fast in the Jerez test (see HERE for all info) and convinced everyone that making his race debut wouldn't be a gamble.
"I'm very happy to be able to end a season like this with a nice last-minute surprise," Bulega said. "Making my debut in the MotoGP is the dream of any child who aspires to be a racer. Also, being able to ride for the last two race weekends of 2025 on the World Champion bike makes everything even more exciting. It's going to be a good challenge. I have no expectations. I'll take this experience as calmly as I need to, also because, for now, I was only been able to test the Desmosedici GP in Jerez at the test. That said, I'm motivated to do well and give it my best in any case. Thanks to Ducati and Ducati Corse for their trust, to Claudio, Gigi, Mauro, Davide, Stefano, and Serafino for making me feel all their support in embarking on this adventure, and to Team Aruba.it Racing-Ducati with which we ended a season as key players."
Luigi Dall'Igna commented on the news.
"I'm very happy to be able to see Nicolò at work on the Desmosedici GP. Nicolò has been part of the Ducati Corse family since 2022, when we wanted him to ride in the Supersport. We believed in him, and he repaid us with two seasons as an absolute key player in the Superbike, where he came close to the title and became our rider of reference. In addition, we've announced his commitment for next year, along with Michele Pirro, in the development of the Desmosedici GP with the new tires and the chance to race. So, in the last two GPs is the best way to start working in this new role as tester. It's definitely going to be challenging, but I hope he'll be able to enjoy this experience. For a young rider, making his debut in the top category of our sport is a great satisfaction."