The Ducati saga continues to animate the paddock. With Marc Marquez injured until early 2026, the Italian brand must find a replacement for the final two races of the season, as well as the Valencia tests. And the name that keeps coming up is Nicolò Bulega, runner-up in the 2025 Superbike World Championship… but not yet ready to jump into the MotoGP deep end without guarantees.
From the announcement of Marquez's unavailability, Ducati attempted a first approach to roll Open up au Malaysian Grand PrixThe Italian declined, convinced that a single appearance would not be beneficial to him. Privately, he fears that a poor performance would leave an indelible mark on his future in the premier class.
Because replacing a driver of the stature of Marquez, is to accept being judged by the yardstick of a nine-time world champion. And this challenge, Open up knows: he can make a career take off... or break it.
Ducati insisted and Open up accepted... but not on any terms. While his refusal for Sepang seemed firm, his position has evolved. Open up is now ready to replace Marquez, provided you have a pre-test on the Desmosedici GP25 so as not to launch blindly. Ducati quickly validated this requirement: the test will take place on October 31 in Jerez.
« Nicolò Bulega wants to be as prepared as possible to avoid making a bad impression »
The sporting director of Ducati Corse, Mauro Grassilli, confirmed to Sky Sport: “ Nicolò is eager to race the Ducati MotoGP, but he wants to be as ready as possible to avoid making a bad impression »
The manufacturer's objective is clear: to align Open up in Portimão and Valencia, if the test provides the necessary guarantees.
The GP25 represents a completely different universe from the Panigale WSBK : new engine characteristics, more complex aerodynamics, more advanced electronic systems, Michelin tires instead of Pirelli. For Open up, everything will have to be relearned.
Faced with the doubts of the young Italian, Michele Pirro, test pilot Ducati and current interim of Marquez, wanted to reassure him at the microphone of*Moto.It:
« For now, we'll see. I'll do my part, there is no need to rush, because, ultimately, MotoGP is not easy. You have to give time time, because everyone who has arrived has had it »
Et Pirro immediately warns against falling into the trap of historical comparisons:
« What we saw Bayliss doing in 2006 is part of history, but for now, I think it's something a little irreplaceable »
If Ducati confirms its commitment to two Grand Prix, Open up will arrive directly at Ricardo Tormo's track to defend his chances. But the Italian must already look ahead to 2026, where he will be tasked with winning the Superbike title, a role as a MotoGP test rider with a potential future in the premier class. Suffice to say, the slightest misstep could weigh heavily.
Between fear of burning one's wings and an irresistible desire to reach the top, Nicholas Bulega is at the most important crossroads of his career. If he shines at Jerez, he will ride in MotoGP in front of the whole world. If he stumbles... Ducati could close the door on him before it was even fully open.
The decision will be made this 31 October. And at that moment, the destiny of Open up may change forever.
