VR46 Downplays Bulega's Pirelli Tyre Edge for 2027 MotoGP
VR46 team boss Uccio Salucci has dismissed the notion that new signing Nicolo Bulega holds a decisive advantage for the 2027 MotoGP season due to his
Nicolo Bulega, the newly crowned World Superbike champion, has been signed by the VR46 MotoGP team. He is the most seasoned rider contracted for 2027 with direct experience on the new Pirelli tyres due to his role in Ducati's 850cc testing programme ahead of the regulation overhaul.
VR46’s Stance on Bulega’s Tyre Expertise
Team principal Uccio Salucci has moved to downplay the significance of this tyre knowledge. He acknowledges a widespread perception that it was the primary reason for the signing. "Many people tell me, 'You only hired Bulega because he already knows Pirelli tyres'," Salucci said. He firmly rejects this view, insisting the rider's talent was the key factor.
Salucci argues that at the elite MotoGP level, adaptation is swift. He believes current riders would need only about two hours to understand the new rubber. While acknowledging it is not a hindrance, he minimises its impact. "It's certainly not a disadvantage for him, but it's not an excessively large advantage either. At least, that's my opinion," he stated.
Contrasting Views on Bulega’s Potential Advantage
Not everyone shares Salucci's assessment. Some within the paddock speculate that Bulega's familiarity could provide a decisive early edge. KTM test rider Pol Espargaro offered a more dramatic prediction, suggesting Bulega could 'smash everyone' at the opening round of the 2027 season because of his tyre experience.
Salucci directly pushed back against this assertion. He maintains that while the experience is a valuable asset, it is far from a guarantee of dominance. The team boss expects Bulega's rivals to get up to speed remarkably quickly once they have track time.
Factory-Satellite Dynamics and Upgrade Uncertainty
Beyond the tyre debate, Salucci highlighted a broader concern for the coming season. He fears a significant performance gap could develop between factory and satellite bikes under the new 2027 regulations, particularly from mid-season onward. That's why I fear the difference between the factory and non-factory bikes will be significant next year, Salucci explained.
All Ducati riders will begin the year on identical machinery. The evolution of the bikes through the season is where complications arise. Bulega's teammate, Fermin Aldeguer, holds factory status through a direct deal with Ducati. Bulega's own upgrade path as a satellite rider remains unclear and could face delays as new parts are developed.
Salucci expressed cautious optimism, noting Ducati is open to providing updates. The decision, however, will be performance-based. If we perform well and deserve it, we'll receive updates, he said. He indicated that Ducati and VR46 would assess the situation after the first five or six races of 2027 before making any calls on upgrades.
