P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati factory team stand-in Nicolo Bulega made a big first impression upon his return to the MotoGP paddock, with a strong showing in his first practice as a premier-class rider
Nicolo Bulega, filling in for the injured Marc Marquez in the Ducati factory team, impressed with a strong showing in his first MotoGP practice session. Despite limited experience on the Desmosedici, he was competitive in both practice sessions at Portimao. Bulega’s performance drew praise from his teammates and competitors, with Pol Espargaro and Pecco Bagnaia commending his efforts. Although Fabio Di Giannantonio had high expectations for Bulega, he acknowledged the challenging transition to MotoGP for his former teammate. Bulega himself focused on gaining experience and adjusting to the differences between Superbike and MotoGP machinery, acknowledging the various challenges he faced on track. Overall, Bulega’s debut in the premier class left a positive impression on the paddock, showcasing his potential for the future.
