P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Nicolo Bulega has completed his first MotoGP test ahead of a potential fill-in ride in place of Marc Marquez.
Nicolo Bulega, a WorldSBK regular, has completed his first test onboard Ducati’s MotoGP bike as a potential fill-in rider for the injured Marc Marquez.
With Marquez out due to shoulder fractures, Bulega, the 2025 World Superbike Championship runner-up, emerges as a viable substitute, potentially surpassing Ducati’s test rider Michele Pirro who struggled in recent MotoGP races.
Considering Ducati’s dominance this season and Bulega’s future in MotoGP, testing the Desmosedici now could prepare him for a possible full-time move to MotoGP in 2027.
The recent test at Circuito de Jerez proved successful, following Bulega’s strong performance in WorldSBK and his Superpole time that would’ve placed him 14th in a MotoGP race earlier this year.
While Bulega’s performance data from the test is not yet available, his potential participation as Marquez’s replacement at the upcoming MotoGP race in Portimao remains unconfirmed.
