Imagine witnessing a rising star take center stage amidst the turmoil of a champion's injury; it sounds like the plot of a thrilling sports drama, doesn’t it? Well, that's exactly what's unfolding as Ducati contemplates elevating Nicolo Bulega to the prestigious MotoGP ranks, potentially filling the void left by Marc Marquez at the upcoming Portuguese Grand Prix in three weeks.
With Marc Marquez, a nine-time world champion, facing an uncertain return to the track due to injuries sustained in a crash with Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi, Ducati is eyeing Bulega as a promising replacement. Bulega, who currently races in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) and serves as a MotoGP tester, signed a two-year contract with Ducati back in May. His familiarity with Pirelli tires—set to debut in MotoGP in 2027—has made him an intriguing candidate for this potential transition.
The excitement around this potential scenario grows, especially since the WSBK season wraps up in Jerez just this weekend, likely with Bulega's rival, Toprak Razgatlioglu, claiming the championship title. This timing means that Bulega will have less on his plate come November, making a move to MotoGP more feasible. According to MotoGP doctor Angel Charte, the prospects for Marquez returning in time for Portugal are slim at best, which further fuels speculation.
In a chat with DAZN, Ducati's team manager Davide Tardozzi shared that the chances of Marquez being fit for Portimao are very low. Tardozzi expressed hope for Marquez's return for the Valencia race, the season's final event, although it hinges on a medical evaluation first. "If he ultimately can't be there, that's fine," Tardozzi remarked, indicating Ducati's preparedness for a scenario where Marquez may not return to the MotoGP machinery until the Sepang test in February 2026.
As for Bulega, Tardozzi acknowledged the possibility of him stepping in for Marquez at Portimao but emphasized the need for Bulega to focus on his current championship fight in Jerez first. He asserted, "Nicolo is in Jerez this weekend fighting for the SBK world championship; he shouldn't be distracted from that goal. After that, we will study the possibility of him making his MotoGP debut at Portimao." This careful approach reflects the team’s understanding of balancing immediate priorities with future opportunities.
Additionally, it remains unclear if Ducati will arrange a test day for Bulega to familiarize himself with the MotoGP bike before a possible debut. Tardozzi mentioned, "It would be useful, we'll evaluate it after the Jerez weekend," highlighting the team's commitment to strategic preparation amidst uncertainty.
Marc Marquez's injury—specifically a fracture to his right shoulder—sustained during the chaotic opening lap in Indonesia, has led to a subsequent surgical operation and prompted his absence from the upcoming Australia-Malaysia double-header. Ducati has confirmed that their test pilot, Michele Pirro, will participate in the Australian Grand Prix and is expected to race in Malaysia on October 25-26.
Have you ever considered the implications of a young race star like Bulega stepping in to fill such significant shoes in the world of MotoGP? It’s a bold move that could not only shape his career but also impact the dynamics within Ducati and the racing community at large. As fans and followers of the sport, do you believe Bulega has what it takes to shine on the international stage, or should Ducati wait for Marquez to recover? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
