The 2026 World Superbike Championship produced its biggest surprise of the season as Iker Lecuona brought Nicolò Bulega’s remarkable winning run to an end by claiming victory in Race 1 at Donington Park.
Starting from pole position, Bulega looked ready to extend his incredible dominance, but Lecuona quickly took control of the race and established himself at the front. The two Aruba Ducati teammates pulled away from the rest of the field, setting up an intense battle for victory.
As the race entered its closing stages, Bulega increased the pressure in an attempt to reclaim the lead. However, Lecuona remained calm under constant attack, producing a flawless performance to secure his first victory of the 2026 season and finally end his teammate’s extraordinary winning streak.
Yari Montella completed an all-Italian Ducati podium after a consistent race, while Britain’s Sam Lowes and Tommy Bridewell delighted the home crowd by finishing fourth and fifth respectively.
Although his unbeaten run has come to an end, Bulega continues to lead the championship comfortably thanks to the points advantage built during the opening rounds. Ducati also leaves Saturday with another outstanding team performance, placing three riders on the podium and confirming the strength of the Panigale V4 R package.
Attention now turns to Sunday’s Superpole Race and Race 2, where Bulega will look to bounce back immediately, while Lecuona will try to prove that his breakthrough victory was no one-off and continue building momentum in the title fight.
Fabio Averna
