Nicolo Bulega’s WorldSBK championship victory marks a significant achievement not only for him but also for his motorcycle, the flawless Ducati Panigale V4 R. Throughout the 2026 WorldSBK season, Bulega has demonstrated outstanding consistency and skill, securing nine poles in 10 attempts, winning 26 of 30 races, never failing to finish (no DNFs), and reaching the podium in every race. Remarkably, he hasn’t placed outside the top two in any dry race since 2024.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Ducati Panigale V4 R has elevated WorldSBK performance standards, winning every single race and occupying all podium spots since the second race at the Hungarian round in May. It currently dominates the riders’ standings, holding the top three and seven of the top ten positions.
Following Bulega’s title win, Ducati Corse general manager Gigi Dall’Igna expressed great pride not only in Bulega’s extraordinary season but also in the entire team behind the bike. “Nicolo’s effort this year is incredible, but we must also recognize the fantastic work done by everyone involved—from the race teams to the engineers at Borgo Panigale,” Dall’Igna told WorldSBK.com after the second race in Cremona. He added, “Bulega has won nearly every race this season, which is an incredible feat, but the bike’s flawless performance has also been crucial. Every team running the Panigale V4 R has achieved great results this year, and I’m very proud.”
At Cremona, Bulega played it safe to secure the championship, finishing second in all three races while the Panigale V4 R still claimed victory, piloted by Iker Lecuona who also secured pole position. Lecuona praised Bulega after the races, calling his MotoGP-bound teammate “perfect every race” throughout 2026.
Fan Take:
Bulega’s dominant season alongside the unbeatable Ducati Panigale V4 R sets a new benchmark in WorldSBK racing, showing how technological excellence and rider talent combine to redefine the sport’s competitive landscape. For racing fans, this could signal an exciting era of innovation and fierce competition as manufacturers and riders strive to challenge Ducati’s supremacy.
Source: www.crash.net
