News Summary
- Nicolò Bulega suffered a violent highside while testing Ducati’s 2027 MotoGP prototype at Mugello
- The future VR46 rider was taken to hospital, where examinations reportedly ruled out fractures
- His participation in the next Pirelli tyre test at the Red Bull Ring is now uncertain
Nicolò Bulega escaped without fractures after a violent crash while testing Ducati’s new 850cc MotoGP prototype at Mugello on Wednesday.
The WorldSBK championship leader was completing the second and final day of Ducati’s private development test when he suffered a highside at Arrabbiata 2 shortly before midday. The fast right-hander is one of the most demanding sections of the Italian circuit.
According to Italian outlet GPOne, Bulega was taken to a hospital near Mugello for further examinations after the impact. The checks reportedly found no fractures or other serious injuries, although the 26-year-old sustained bruising across his body.
Bulega was discharged later on Wednesday and returned home to begin his recovery. Ducati has yet to issue a detailed medical update or confirm when he will be able to ride again.
The crash came during Bulega’s latest appearance in Ducati’s 2027 testing programme. MotoGP will reduce engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc next season, while Pirelli will replace Michelin as the championship’s official tyre supplier.
Bulega’s extensive experience with Pirelli tyres in WorldSBK has made him an important part of Ducati’s development work ahead of the regulations reset. His role also provides valuable preparation for his return to the Grand Prix paddock.
The Italian has already been confirmed as a VR46 rider for the 2027 MotoGP season, when he will partner Fermín Aldeguer. He is one of five rookies included in the completed 2027 MotoGP grid.
It is not yet clear whether Bulega will recover in time for Monday’s planned MotoGP tyre test at the Red Bull Ring. Ducati is also expected to run Marc Márquez and Aldeguer during the session.
Bulega must then prepare for the next WorldSBK round at Cremona, where he will arrive with a mathematical opportunity to secure the championship. His fitness will therefore be assessed before any decision is made about his immediate testing and racing programme.
Nicolò Bulega can clinch the WorldSBK title at the next round (Photo: Ducati)
The MotoGP season continues with the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring from September 18–20.
MotoGP today: FAQ
What time is Austrian MotoGP qualifying in the UK?
Q1 begins at 09:50 UK time on Saturday, September 19, followed by Q2 at 10:15. The Sprint starts at 14:00.
Who qualified directly for Q2 at the Austrian MotoGP?
Pedro Acosta, Fermín Aldeguer, Ai Ogura, Marc Márquez, Jorge Martín, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Brad Binder, Álex Márquez, Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Quartararo advanced directly to Q2.
Why is Francesco Bagnaia competing in Q1 in Austria?
Bagnaia finished Friday Practice in 18th place, 0.885s behind Acosta and 0.449s outside the top ten. It will be his fifth consecutive appearance in Q1.
