In a major shake-up of the MotoGP rider market, Fabio di Giannantonio has officially committed to a move to the factory KTM team for the 2027 season, paving the way for Nicolo Bulega to potentially step into his seat at VR46.
The 27-year-old Italian, who has been racing under the Ducati umbrella with the VR46 team, had set a firm deadline of Friday at the French Grand Prix to receive a satisfactory offer from the Italian manufacturer. When Ducati and Valentino Rossi's squad asked for more time, di Giannantonio made a decisive move, accepting KTM's proposal to become a factory rider alongside Alex Marquez.
For the rider, this deal fulfills two major ambitions: becoming a factory rider for a top manufacturer and securing a salary increase to around €2 million per season. The agreement was finalized on Saturday night in the Le Mans paddock, adding extra drama to an already action-packed race weekend.
This shift leaves VR46 with a crucial decision to make for the 2027 lineup. The team already has Fermin Aldeguer locked in for next season—the Ducati-contracted rider is moving from Gresini to join the Tavullia squad. But with di Giannantonio's departure, the second seat is now wide open.
According to Motorsport.com, the leading candidates to fill that spot are Nicolo Bulega and Luca Marini. Bulega, currently a Ducati factory rider in the World Superbike Championship, has a contract that includes MotoGP testing duties with a "promise" of a premier-class promotion. "If Diggia does not continue with us, our main option to replace him is Nicolo," a Ducati source confirmed, noting that the manufacturer would cover the salaries of both VR46 riders.
However, the situation is complicated by Marini's uncertain future. If Rossi's half-brother cannot secure a ride with Honda or another MotoGP team, VR46 could bring him back for next season. But that would mean the team would need to cover his salary and pay Ducati for the full bike package—a financial hurdle that could tip the scales in Bulega's favor.
This rider market domino effect is just one of several big stories unfolding in MotoGP, with Trackhouse boss Davide Brivio also reportedly leaving for a factory Honda role in 2027, and Marc Marquez set to miss at least two races after a highside at the French GP.
As the 2027 grid takes shape, all eyes are on VR46's next move—and whether Bulega will finally get his shot on the MotoGP stage.