Nicolo Bulega feels drained – “but there are tougher things in life”

Nicolo Bulega has gone an incredible 25 races unbeaten in the Superbike World Championship – since 11 October 2025 at Estoril, when he was pipped in the sprint by the eventual champion, Toprak Razgatlioglu (BMW). Such a run is unprecedented in a road racing world championship and commands the utmost respect from every one of his rivals.

On Friday at the Donington Park Circuit, they were once again unable to find a way past the Italian, whofinished first in both free practice sessions and leads the combined timesheets by 0.207 seconds ahead of the once again strong Yari Montella (Barni Spark Ducati), currently third in the World Championship.

“It wasn’t bad, because I’m first, but the feeling wasn’t quite what I’d hoped for,” said Bulega of his Aruba-Ducati. “There are some sections of the track where I don’t feel very comfortable on the bike, but overall it wasn’t too bad.”

Nico Bulega is hardly ever at home

The World Championship leader currently has a packed schedule: As well as the – not so many – rounds of the Superbike World Championship, he regularly tests the new 850cc MotoGP Ducati, takes part in Superbike tests with Michelin tyres, was at World Ducati Week last weekend and also attended the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday. Bulega confirmed that he’s feeling a bit worn out: “Over the past few weeks, I’ve spent more time at events and riding motorbikes than at home. Okay, there are tougher things in life than riding motorbikes. But after a few days, your body needs a bit of a rest because it’s a very demanding sport. After these races, I’ve got another MotoGP test, and afterwards I’d like to treat myself to 15 or 20 days away from motorbikes.”

Nicolo Bulega in Donington Park

Foto: gold & goose

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“I’ve never been to Goodwood before; it’s a brilliant event with loads of motorsport fans,” added the 26-year-old on Friday evening during a small media session in England. “But when you’ve got a schedule packed with so many events, it was a bit stressful for me. Especially because I was sweating in my leathers in the sun for two or three hours. Ahead of a race weekend with such high temperatures, you need to conserve energy for your body.”