Get ready for a thrilling weekend as the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) makes its way to the picturesque Misano World Circuit 'Marco Simoncelli' for Round 7 of the 2026 season. This iconic Italian venue promises an electric atmosphere, passionate fans, and intense racing action that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
The Historic Streak of Nicolo Bulega
One of the main attractions this weekend is Nicolo Bulega, riding for Aruba.it Racing - Ducati. Bulega has been on an incredible winning streak, claiming victory in 22 consecutive races, with 18 of those coming this year alone. If he steps onto the podium just once this weekend, he will tie with Colin Edwards and Marco Melandri, the latter being the Italian rider with the most podiums. But Bulega isn't just content with tying records; he aims to continue his historic winning run. Last year, he faced tough competition from Toprak Razgatlioglu, who beat him in both Race 1 and Race 2, and he was also taken out of the Tissot Superpole Race by Axel Bassani. Despite these challenges, Bulega remains a strong favorite, especially on his home turf.
A Host of Italian Heroes
Misano is not just about Bulega; it's a showcase for a host of talented Italian riders. Axel Bassani, riding for bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team, is always a force to be reckoned with on home soil and will be eager to return to the rostrum. Iker Lecuona, on a run of 15 second-place finishes, and Sam Lowes, who claimed three P3s at Aragon, are also in the mix. Alex Lowes, who secured a rostrum finish for Bimota in 2025, will aim to repeat his success.
Other Italian riders to watch include Yari Montella and Lorenzo Baldassarri, who have been podium contenders this season but had a tough time at Aragon. They'll be looking to bounce back on home soil. Alberto Surra, who achieved his best WorldSBK result of P4 last time out and took third in the Tissot Superpole session, is almost touching the podium and will be a threat. In 2025, Surra won the Moto2 European Championship race at Misano, and he'll be aiming for a repeat performance. Andrea Locatelli, Stefano Manzi, and Mattia Rato are also Italian riders with something to prove on their home track.
Riders in Top Form
Tommy Bridewell, riding for Superbike Advocates, has been on an impressive run, achieving his best WorldSBK finish at Aragon with fifth in Race 1. Garrett Gerloff, from Kawasaki WorldSBK Team, ended Aragon with P6 but is aiming for a consistent top-six finish. Alvaro Bautista, with six Misano wins under his belt, will be closer to full fitness and looking to add to his impressive record. Xavi Vierge, who had a tough Aragon Round, will aim to return to the top ten at Misano.
Aiming High in Italy
Tarran Mackenzie, riding for MGM Optical Express Racing, managed one top-ten finish at Aragon and will be pushing for single-digit results at Misano. Remy Gardner has shown signs of improvement, finishing 12th in Race 2 at Aragon, and will be looking to break into the top ten. Somkiat Chantra, who had a battle with Gardner at Aragon, seemingly made a step forward and will be hoping to continue his progress at Misano. Bahattin Sofuoglu, who hasn't scored points since Race 2 at Balaton Park, will be aiming for a return to the points.
Grid Changes and Anticipation
Despite his long-awaited Honda debut at MotorLand Aragon, Jake Dixon will miss the Emilia-Romagna Round as he focuses on his rehabilitation program. Ryan Vickers will replace him in Italy, having already made a wildcard appearance for Honda in Australia. At BMW, Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport, has set his sights on Misano for the return of both Miguel Oliveira and Danilo Petrucci. Oliveira, in particular, has stated that he believes it's realistic for him to compete within the next two weeks. If either or both riders are to compete, they will need to pass a pre-round medical check, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the weekend.
As the paddock prepares for the Pirelli Emilia-Romagna Round, the atmosphere is electric, and the stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of racing. With Bulega's historic streak, the depth of Italian talent, and the potential grid changes, Misano promises to deliver thrilling action and memorable moments. Get ready for a weekend of high-octane racing and intense competition!
