The WorldSBK break is looking like a real transfer window. Following the announcement of the recruitment of Danilo Petrucci to replace Toprak Razgatlioglu, BMW is preparing a complete overhaul of its team for 2026. The first domino to fall: the end of the adventure with Michael van der Mark, worn down by a lackluster season.
The Dutchman's manager, Laurens Klein-Koerkamp, confirms the separation from ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK and opens the door to other horizons: There are still opportunities in World Superbike, but for now, we look elsewhere and discuss itIt is too early to go into details. »
In addition to SBK tracks, a switch to Endurance makes sense. Four-time winner of the Suzuka 8 Hours and 5th this year with BMW Motorrad EWC, van der mark could extend the story with the brand in EWC while keeping an eye on possible handlebars SBK.
With Van der Mark out, who will team up with Petrucci?
With Petrucci as a pillar, BMW wants to support a high-level teammate. The dream is called Jack MillerThe Australian wants to stay in MotoGP with Prima Pramac Yamaha, but the Iwata factory has not yet decided the fate of Miller et Miguel Oliveira. Possible scenario side Yamaha : a completely revamped duo alongside Toprak Razgatlioglu with a Moto2 rookie — which would potentially free up Miller for the SBK.
Aron canet chose to stay in Moto2 with Elf Marc VDS (structure also present in SBK, useful for the future), ruling out for the moment an immediate arrival at BMWThe German brand nevertheless keeps several alternatives if the track Miller cools down.
For BMW, the objective is clear: capitalize on the speed of Petrucci and offer him a partner capable of lining up podiums and victories from 2026. For van der mark, the time has come for a career recalibration without closing the door to the series Grand Prix.
The announcements could come very quickly: the 2026 plateau is taking shape, and BMW wants to hit hard.
