Dall’Igna on Bulega: Why his Moto2 past is not particularly telling

Can Nicolo Bulega succeed in MotoGP, even though he failed to impress in the Moto2 World Championship? This question is on the mind of the newly crowned Superbike World Champion as he makes his way back to the Grand Prix paddock. For Ducati Corse boss Luigi Dall’Igna, however, what matters most is the skills Bulega brings to the table today. He highlights Bulega’s cornering speed and mental development.

Bulega’s Moto2 record provides ammunition for his critics. In three years, he failed to secure a single podium finish. The breakthrough that had been hoped for following his promotion from Moto3 failed to materialise. Anyone looking solely at these results might have doubts as to whether the Italian is ready for the premier class.

But several years have passed between the Moto2 rider of that time and the Bulega of today, including a fresh start in the Superbike paddock and two world championship titles. He found his way back to success via the Supersport World Championship and subsequently developed into a top rider in the Superbike World Championship on the Ducati Panigale V4R.

What Dall’Igna particularly values in Bulega

When asked what particular strength he recognises in Bulega, Dall’Igna cited a specific section of the lap: “I think his speed through the middle of the corners is one of his great strengths. That’s the phase of the lap where Nicolo gets the most out of the bike.”

Luigi Dall'Igna jubelte in Cremona mit Nicolo Bulega

Foto: Ducati

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For the Ducati Corse boss, however, Bulega’s development is not solely a matter of riding style. Just as important, in his view, is the way the Italian now approaches his role. “I also think he’s mentally very strong at the moment. It’s not like it used to be. I believe he’s learnt a great deal from his experiences here,” said Dall’Igna.

In doing so, Dall’Igna pinpoints precisely the aspect that an assessment based on old results lists can hardly capture: a rider continues to develop. Difficult years can slow down his career, but they do not necessarily determine for good the level he will eventually reach.

Superbike paddock enabled a fresh start to his career

After his unsuccessful spell in Moto2, Bulega had to chart a new course. The move to the Supersport World Championship gave him the opportunity to rebuild his confidence and demonstrate his skills in a different environment. His Supersport title was followed by victory in the Superbike class. He became the first rider ever to celebrate titles in both classes.

That does not, however, guarantee him success in MotoGP. The demands of a prototype bike differ significantly from those of a Superbike. Dall’Igna’s assessment, however, makes it clear why Ducati believes he is up to the task: the manufacturer sees a fast and mature rider whose current qualities go beyond his previous Moto2 record.

For Bulega, the return to the Grand Prix paddock will therefore also be an opportunity to show just how much has changed since he left. Dall’Igna is convinced that this transformation has already taken place – both on the bike and in his mindset.