After a brilliant season in the World Superbike Championship, Italian rider Nicolo Bulega is set to take another big step in his career. Ducati Lenovo Team has confirmed that Bulega will take part in a MotoGP test at Jerez, marking his first session in MotoGP.

Bulega’s strong year in WorldSBK, where he fought hard as a top contender, has clearly impressed Ducati. The test comes in handy, as Bulega has already been signed as part of Ducati’s MotoGP development team from 2026, as the manufacturer prepares for the new technical regulations that will arrive in 2027.

Team Manager Davide Tardozzi explained the reasoning behind the move in WorldSBK.com interview: “We want Nicolo to feel comfortable on the MotoGP bike because he’ll be helping us develop the new machine from 2026. Gaining experience on the 1000cc bike now will be a big advantage for him later.”

Tardozzi also hinted that Ducati will review Bulega’s performance after the test before deciding what comes next. However, there is also an option that Bulega could fill in for Marc Márquez, who will not return to racing this season, with the upcoming Portuguese and Valencia Grands Prix being the final rounds of the year.

“After the test, we’ll decide what to do for the next two races,” Tardozzi added. “We think it could be a good opportunity for him, but nothing is confirmed yet.”

If Ducati gives the green light, it would be a fitting reward for Bulega’s efforts this season, and a chance to see how the WorldSBK star handles the challenge of MotoGP machinery.

For now, all eyes turn to Jerez, where Bulega’s test could shape the next chapter of his racing journey.