Franco Morbidelli Faces Seat Shake‑up as VR46 Plans 2027 Line‑up

**Franco Morbidelli** may lose his 2027 VR46 Ducati seat, with the team reportedly eyeing **Nicolo Bulega** as a replacement, according to a July 7 2026 report.

VR46 Ducati confirmed that **Fermin Aldeguer** will join the factory squad, taking the spot vacated by Fabio Di Giannantonio. The second seat, occupied this season by **Franco Morbidelli**, is now the subject of intense speculation. Sources close to the team say Bulega, the 2025 Moto2 race‑winner, is the frontrunner to step into the MotoGP line‑up.

Morbidelli finished the 2026 season in 11th place overall, scoring 78 points and failing to achieve a podium. The Italian’s performance, combined with VR46’s ambition to field a younger, faster rider, has prompted the management to explore alternatives. Bulega’s strong Moto2 record-three wins and a fifth‑place finish in the championship-makes him an attractive option for a team eager to climb the standings.

The potential move is part of a cascade of rider changes shaping the 2027 MotoGP grid. Red Bull KTM confirmed **Fabio Di Giannantonio** and **Alex Marquez** for 2027, while **Pedro Acosta** will partner **Marc Marquez** at Ducati. **Joan Mir** and rookie **Dani Holgado** have locked in at Gresini Ducati. If Morbidelli departs, the Italian veteran could become a free agent, opening a slot for another team to snap up his experience.

Should VR46 finalize Bulega’s promotion, Morbidelli could negotiate with a satellite outfit such as **Pramac Yamaha** or **LCR Honda**, both of which are rumored to be scouting experienced riders. Alternatively, a return to a factory seat remains possible if another team faces a late‑season vacancy. Morbidelli’s agent has not commented, but insiders suggest discussions are already underway.

VR46 has not set a public timeline, but multiple insiders expect an official statement before the end of the summer testing window, likely in early September 2026. The announcement will clarify whether Morbidelli stays, moves, or becomes a free agent, and will shape the final composition of the 2027 MotoGP grid.

For Italian MotoGP followers, the news adds drama to the off‑season narrative. Morbidelli, a former race winner and 2022 podium finisher, still commands a loyal fan base. Whether he remains with VR46 or finds a new home, his next move will be closely watched as the sport heads toward a new era under the 850 cc regulations.