The paradox is complete. BMW is experiencing the most successful period in its history in the Superbike World Championship, but the future remains suspended on a decision... which is slow in coming. The current commitment of the BMW AG Board of Management only runs until the end of 2026. And everything that comes after that—2027 and beyond—is still under negotiation.
Since returning in 2019 as a factory team, BMW climbed the ladder step by step. The arrival of Toprak Razgatlioglu in 2024 changed the situation: last year, the German brand won its first world title in the category reserved for motorcycles from the production line. A historic achievement.
Yet in Munich, sport is not seen as a strategic priority. The decision on the M1000RR program initially planned for mi-2025 was postponed to September… then to first quarter 2026Each postponement fuels uncertainty.
The team led by Shaun Muir is directly impacted. Negotiations with pilots are frozen due to lack of long-term visibility. BMW can only offer “1+1” contracts, with an option for 2027.
For Danilo Petrucci, which replaces Soil This year, it's not a problem: the pilot is coming soon 35 years is happy to be able to ride for a factory team again in the autumn of his career. But for others, the uncertainty complicates discussions.
The most pressing case remains the replacement of Michael van der Mark, announced towards the MotoAmerica with BMWThe favorite for his handlebar is none other than Miguel Oliveira, about to leave MotoGP and the Yamaha Pramac.
« BMW's decision will be made in the next two weeks; we expect it for the Aragon weekend. »
Shaun Muir confirmed on speedweek in Magny-Cours:
« The decision will be made in the next two weeks; we expect it for the Aragon weekend. We are looking for the best possible driver ; the contractual situation with the BMW Group is what it is. Danilo signed a 1+1 contract; he understands our situation. A two-year fixed contract would be ideal, but it is not the caseHowever, this could quickly become a two-year contract if the board releases the relevant information. »
Despite these gray areas, Muir says he is confident: " absolutely. Everything I see, everything we talk about, leads to a continuation »
Clear, BMW has the best team in its history, a credible project, and motivated drivers. But without a clear commitment beyond 2026, everything remains fragile. The team is walking a tightrope: building the future... without any certainty that there will be one.
