It was an action-packed Saturday for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team. At the Autodromo do Algarve in Portimão (Portugal), Nicolò Bulega and Iker Lecuona starred in an extraordinary day that began with a dominant Superpole and continued with a 1-2 finish in the first European race of the 2026 WorldSBK season.
Starting from pole position, the Italian rider led from the first to the last lap, securing his first career victory at Portimão.
It was also a result to remember for the Spaniard, who secured his first career podium with the Ducati Panigale V4R.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #11)
“A win is always a significant result, especially for the team, who have done a great job. I’m happy, there’s no denying it, but the aim is to keep making progress regardless. Today we’ve secured our first win at Portimao, with the aim of improving our race pace for tomorrow.”
Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #7)
“I’m very happy. Right from FP1 I’ve had a great feeling with my Panigale V4 R. We’re making progress every day and for that I have to thank the team. Today was an important day; I was quick in Superpole and in Race 1 the race pace was strong. We still have room for improvement and it will be great to keep exploring that.”
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