Nicolò Bulega remains an essential force behind Ducati’s relentless pursuit of supremacy as the Italian rider intensifies development work on the cutting-edge Ducati 850 prototype.
Currently soaking up the final days of respite amid the tranquil peaks of Trentino, Bulega is poised to return to the track for a crucial two-day testing stint at Mugello. This session marks the first chapter in Ducati’s ambitious roadmap to refine the machine designed for the radical new technical regulations slated for 2027.
The Ducati 850, representing the next evolutionary leap from Borgo Panigale, will undergo intensive evaluation with Bulega at the helm. These forthcoming Mugello tests are not a mere formality but a strategic cornerstone as Ducati seeks to sharpen every facet of its groundbreaking prototype. Ducati’s commitment to progressive development is underscored by a tightly scheduled testing program, ensuring continuous improvements over the coming weeks.
Following Mugello, Bulega is slated to head to Misano on August 25 and 26 for an additional two days of rigorous testing. These sessions will extend Ducati’s development timeline, allowing the factory team to accumulate critical data and fine-tune the 850 ahead of the new technical era. In total, Bulega’s involvement will culminate in ten days on the prototype, an extensive program that highlights Ducati’s proactive approach despite the 2027 debut still being several seasons away.
Bulega’s role has surged in prominence amid the absence of Michele Pirro, whose recovery sidelines him until mid-September. This shift places heightened responsibility on Bulega’s shoulders, positioning him as a pivotal contributor within Ducati’s development squad. His work is vital to maintaining the momentum and ensuring that Ducati’s forthcoming contender meets the exacting demands of the sport’s evolving landscape.
Ducati’s meticulous preparation reflects a clear strategic vision, emphasizing the importance of groundwork and innovation long before the new regulations take effect. The factory’s focus on early development underlines their ambition to arrive fully prepared and competitive when the next generation of machinery hits the grid.
As Bulega transitions from mountain retreat to high-speed test sessions, Ducati’s future in is being shaped with precision and intensity. His deep involvement underscores the critical nature of these tests in sculpting a championship-caliber machine ready for the challenges of 2027 and beyond.