Marc Márquez out in Portugal? Nicolo Bulega could replace him

Marc Márquez's absence is likely to be prolonged. After a crash in Indonesia that resulted in a broken collarbone, the 2025 world champion has had to cancel both the Australian Grand Prix, which takes place this week, and the following round in Malaysia. However, recent statements from his doctor indicate that a return for the Portuguese Grand Prix would be unwise. Ducati has therefore begun looking for a replacement.

At Phillip Island, as at Sepang, Borgo Panigale test rider Michele Pirro is replacing Marc Márquez. However, he could leave his place to Nicolo Bulega for the Portimao event. Currently second in the Superbike World Championship, the Italian is also part of the brand's test team, as announced at the beginning of the summer. He could therefore compete in his first race in MotoGP from the Portuguese Grand Prix.

Nicolo Bulega to replace Marc Márquez

This is what Davide Tardozzi suggested when asked. As he finishes his season in WorldSBK, where he is battling for the title with Toprak Razgatlioglu – a future Pramac rider in MotoGP – there has already been talk of entrusting him with Marquez's bike. "It's a possibility, confided Davide Tardozzi, team manager of the official Ducati team, on Spanish television. Nicolò is in Jerez this weekend, to fight for the WorldSBK title, we must not distract him from this objective. Then, we will study the possibility of giving him his MotoGP debut in Portimão."

As it becomes increasingly clear that Marc Márquez will not be making the trip to Portugal, the question arises as to whether the nine-time world champion will get back on a motorcycle this year. After the aforementioned deadline, there will only be the championship finale in Valencia the following week (November 15). A crucial week for preparation for the next season, since the Official Test that will follow the event will give riders and teams the opportunity to unveil their future machines.

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