It turns out even a six-time World Champion can get tired of holding down a club all by himself. Following the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship title success of Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing - Ducati), legendary rider Max Biaggi finally has some company in a very exclusive club. Bulega joins the 'Roman Emperor' as only the second Italian to ever conquer the WorldSBK crown.
Biaggi made no secret of his relief at handing over the baton after waiting 14 years since his last title in 2012. "I was feeling really lonely. Now, with him, I'm feeling much happier," Biaggi said, offering big congratulations to his compatriot. He pointed out the sheer dominance of the #11's campaign, noting that Bulega is now heading to MotoGP after his tremendous year. "I can't wait to see him in that Championship," Biaggi added.
When you win the title in that way and dominate, I think it's a combination of talent, ability and machine on the technical side,
The parallels between the two Italians go beyond just their passports and the machines beneath them. Both men also sealed their championship glory on home soil in front of their passionate fans. While Biaggi secured his 2010 title at Imola, Bulega wrapped up his championship at the Cremona Circuit during Round 10.
"You cannot ask for more when you win in your home country, in front of your fans. There's no better way to do it," Biaggi reflected, speaking from firsthand experience. "He will remember that day forever. I say this from experience because I did it and I remember. This will stay in his mind forever. Nicolo, enjoy that moment and hopefully you can remember this one forever!"
Bulega's stunning campaign rewrote the record books for a single season. The machine and the rider clicked in terrifying harmony, with Bulega winning all but one race, nearly doubling the win streak record, and claiming every single pole position along the way. Biaggi knows a thing or two about machinery and dominance, giving full credit to the winning formula.
"When you win the title in that way and dominate, I think it's a combination of talent, ability and machine on the technical side," Biaggi stated, acknowledging that Ducati have dominated the championship while emphasizing the rider's execution. "When you win so many races, there's no doubt."
