Italian rider Nicolò Bulega offered both praise and a technical caution for Miguel Oliveira’s upcoming transition from MotoGP to the World Superbike Championship, asserting the Portuguese rider’s talent while highlighting crucial differences in machine handling.
Bulega, currently a Ducati rider in MotoGP filling in for Marc Márquez, told Lusa news agency he believes Oliveira “doesn’t need my advice.”
“I think he is a very good guy,” Bulega said, expressing anticipation for competing against Oliveira next year. “I hope to have a good championship with him and, obviously, he is a great rider.”
Oliveira, a long-time MotoGP competitor, is set to depart the premier class after seven seasons to join BMW in the World Superbike (WSBK) series starting in 2026.
Bulega, who is second in the 2025 Superbike championship standings, specifically warned about the significant disparity in braking systems between the two motorcycle racing categories.
“Of course the brake is very different, some parts are opposite to MotoGP,” Bulega explained, referencing a recent fall he experienced at the Algarve International Circuit.
He stressed the necessity of aggressive braking in Superbikes to maintain control, a technique distinct from MotoGP where such intensity is not always possible.
Oliveira’s move will see him join fellow former MotoGP rider Danilo Petrucci in WSBK.
Meanwhile, Toprak Razgatlioglu, whom Bulega currently trails in the Superbike standings, is slated to take Oliveira’s spot at Prima Pramac Yamaha in MotoGP for 2026.
Oliveira is participating in the Grand Prix of Portugal MotoGP race this Sunday in Portimão, at 1 p.m. local time, marking his final appearance in the category before his home crowd.