Motorsport

Nicolò Bulega and Ducati Dominates WorldSBK Opener

Hazique Zairill

February 25, 2025

The 2025 WorldSBK season is off to a thrilling start, with Bulega and Ducati setting the bar high for the competition.

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Nicolò Bulega has etched his name into the history books of the Australian Superbike Round, delivering a flawless performance at the opening weekend of the 2025 WorldSBK season. The Italian rider not only secured three wins but also topped every single session at the Phillip Island circuit, including the four sessions held during pre-event testing.

Bulega’s dominance was on full display in Race 2, where he crossed the finish line 2.603 seconds ahead of his Aruba.it Racing – Ducati teammate, Alvaro Bautista. The Italian’s commanding performance capped off a historic weekend, marking the first time a rider has won every session and race at a WorldSBK round.

“I can’t hide the fact that I am delighted with this weekend,” Bulega said. “It’s clear that the results are there for all to see, but what gives me more satisfaction is the feeling with the bike, which has been perfect since the tests. I want to thank the team for their extraordinary job.”

Bautista’s Spectacular Comeback

Alvaro Bautista, Bulega’s teammate, faced a challenging start to his Sunday. In the Superpole Race, the Spanish rider was forced off track to avoid contact with Toprak Razgatlioglu (BMW) on the opening lap, leaving him in 11th place for the start of Race 2. However, Bautista staged a thrilling comeback, charging through the field to finish second and complete a Ducati 1-2.

“This Sunday didn’t start in the best way in the Superpole Race,” Bautista admitted. “However, the feeling was good, allowing me to stay focused and ride in Race 2 as I liked. I am satisfied because my goal for this weekend was to get a good feeling again. We go to Portimao with good feelings.”

Razgatlioglu’s Misfortune and Ducati’s Dominance

Toprak Razgatlioglu, who started 10th alongside Bautista, suffered a bike issue after a mandatory pit stop and was forced to retire from the race. Meanwhile, Ducati continued to assert its dominance, with Andrea Iannone completing the podium in third place.

Scott Redding finished fourth but was handed a time penalty for breaking the mandatory pit-stop minimum time rule. Danilo Petrucci secured fifth place, while Marc VDS’s Sam Lowes rounded out the top six.

Yamaha’s Andrea Locatelli was the best of the rest in seventh, followed by Alex Lowes, Yari Montella, and Axel Bassani, who completed the top ten.

A Historic Weekend for Bulega and Ducati

Bulega’s perfect weekend at Phillip Island not only highlights his exceptional talent but also underscores Ducati’s strength in the 2025 WorldSBK season. With Bulega and Bautista leading the charge, the Italian manufacturer has sent a clear message to its rivals.

Will Ducati and Bulega continue their dominance at the next round in Portimao, or will Toprak redeem himself after a disappointing Round 1? The championship’s next stop could provide the answers.