BULEGA SAYS KTM WAS HIS STRONGEST ALTERNATIVE BEFORE VR46 DEAL

Nicolo Bulega says KTM was a serious possibility for his MotoGP future before he secured a place with VR46 for 2027. The reigning World Superbike champion had also been linked with Aprilia’s Trackhouse team, but described that route as less likely.

“ The possibility of joining KTM was there, and it was probably the most concrete,” Bulega told GPOne. He said his manager had met with KTM executives, while the rider market was still waiting for its leading names to decide their plans. Aprilia was another option, he added, “perhaps more limited.”

Bulega’s eventual move keeps him with Ducati, the manufacturer he has represented since joining its programme in 2022. He began in Supersport before Ducati promoted him directly to its factory WorldSBK team. After a successful run that included many race wins, he claimed the world title last month.

“I’ve always said I would have liked to continue with Ducati,” Bulega said. “Continuing with Ducati was my greatest desire and in the end we achieved it. Now a new challenge begins.”

That challenge will see him join Valentino Rossi’s VR46 squad, where he will partner Fermin Aldeguer. Bulega previously raced for the team in Moto2 in 2019. His move follows a role in Ducati’s MotoGP testing programme for 2026, helping develop the new 850cc machine and bringing experience with Pirelli tyres. That work had appeared to put him on course for a Ducati-backed MotoGP seat, although the shifting rider market left his destination uncertain for a time.

Some rivals have suggested his familiarity with the new bikes and tyres could make him a threat in the opening races of 2027. Bulega has played down those expectations. Before beginning his MotoGP chapter, he is due to make his final WorldSBK appearance with Ducati at Jerez.