P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Factory Ducati rider Nicolo Bulega stormed to a dominant victory in the first race of the 2026 WorldSBK season at the Australian round in Phillip Island.
Factory Ducati rider Nicolo Bulega dominated the first race of the 2026 WorldSBK season in Phillip Island, clinching his fourth consecutive victory at the circuit. Despite wheelieing off the line, Bulega maintained the lead over satellite Ducati rider Yari Montella. Alex Lowes made an impressive start to secure a podium spot, while Alvaro Bautista’s race ended prematurely due to a crash. Sam Lowes also faced challenges with his rear tire, losing positions to other riders, including Miguel Oliveira who stormed from 21st to finish 11th. In the end, Bulega claimed victory, Montella came second, and Lorenzo Baldassari secured his first-ever podium in WorldSBK.
