Ducati Fires Rinaldi, Promotes Bulega To WorldSBK 2024
In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the World Superbike community, Ducati has announced a major shakeup in its World Superbike (WorldSBK) team for the 2024 season. The Italian manufacturer has decided to part ways with Michael Ruben Rinaldi and has promoted rising star Nicol Bulega to join Alvaro Bautista in the factory Aruba.it World Superbike squad.
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Click this link to view WorldBSK’s Insta post revealing Beluga’s promotion.
Rinaldi’s Departure
Michael Ruben Rinaldi, who is currently seventh in the 2023 WorldSBK Championship points table, will not be continuing with the Ducati team for the 2024 season. Rinaldi, who has shown immense potential and significantly contributed to the team, is set to explore new opportunities.
Stefano Cecconi, Team Principal of Aruba.it Racing-Ducati, expressed his gratitude towards Rinaldi, highlighting the strong professional and human relationship they shared. Despite parting ways, Rinaldi will always be considered part of the Ducati family.
Bulega’s Rise
The announcement comes with the elevation of Nicol Bulega, the current leader in the Supersport World Championship. Bulega, with an impressive record of nine wins and 13 podium finishes in the season so far, has showcased his talent and dedication.
The Bulega Case
Bulega, born in 1999, sees this as a dream come true and a significant milestone in his career. While oining an official team has always been the desire of every rider, and Bulega is no exception. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to Ducati and Aruba. Racing for believing in him, especially acknowledging Stefano Cecconi, Serafino Foti, and Daniele Casolari for their continued support.
Having ridden the Ducati Panigale V2 last season, Bulega felt immediately comfortable with the bike. He recognizes the importance of this opportunity and the commitment to giving his best to achieve exceptional results. Bulega is proud to represent Ducati and is eager to share the pit with Alvaro Bautista, from whom he hopes to absorb valuable insights and knowledge.
Ducati’s Perspective
While Luigi Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager, expressed the team’s satisfaction in welcoming Nicol Bulega to the official Superbike team. He praised Bulega’s talent and experience, emphasizing that Bulega’s presence alongside Alvaro Bautista will contribute to his growth as a rider. Dall’Igna also noted the importance of Bulega finishing his last season in Supersport on a high note.
While his strategic move by Ducati has the potential to reshape the landscape of World Superbike racing in the 2024 season. Nicol Bulega’s journey from leading the Supersport World Championship to joining the factory Ducati team is a testament to his remarkable talent and dedication to the sport. Fans and enthusiasts eagerly await the 2024 season to see how this new lineup will perform on the field.
