Ducati targets Morbidelli and González for WorldSBK lead seat

Former MotoGP race winner Franco Morbidelli and Moto2 points leader Manu González have emerged as the frontrunners to fill the single vacant factory seat at Ducati’s World Superbike team. The position opens as current rider Nicolo Bulega, who has dominated the 2024 WorldSBK season, prepares to move to Valentino Rossi’s VR46 MotoGP squad in 2027. With Iker Lecuona already re‑signed, only one slot remains. Aruba Ducati boss Serafino Foti sees Morbidelli slightly ahead, citing his Italian passport and regular training on a Ducati Panigale V4, while González’s strong Moto2 form (a 51.5‑point lead) makes him a viable alternative should no factory offer materialise.