Iker Lecuona’s 2026 WorldSBK season marked a sharp change in his results. In his first year with Aruba.it Racing – Ducati, the Spaniard claimed his maiden championship win and finished runner-up overall. His season record stands at 32 podiums from 36 races, including four victories. Across the previous four seasons, he had reached the podium only twice.
Lecuona finished on the podium in all three races at the season finale in Jerez. He was third in the first full race, second in the Superpole sprint and second again in the final race. He briefly led the last race from the start, before teammate and 2026 champion Nicolo Bulega moved ahead on the opening lap. After the finish, Lecuona said rain and cold wind had reduced rear grip; he chose to protect his position rather than push beyond it at the end of the year.
He also credits the competition within his team for his progress. Bulega repeatedly set the pace, giving Lecuona a demanding benchmark as he grew accustomed to racing at the front. His first victory came at Donington Park, followed later by a sweep of three races in a weekend at Cremona. The season illustrates how a supportive team and sustained internal competition can transform a rider’s results across a year, rather than in a single standout race.