BMW may join MotoGP in 2027, admitted the new head of BMW Motorrad, Markus Flasch.
They are the only major European manufacturer who are missing from the MotoGP field and there have been never-ending questions about their absence. However, the news coincides with Dorna’s proposed sweeping changes across the series, including returning the maximum engine capacity to 800cc. There have rumours to state as far as BMW and Dorna’s discussions have already resulted in a agreed deal.
Flasch, in an interview with Motorrad made it clear that he is an “absolute advocate of motorsport.” It bodes well for someone who was the head of the M Sport division before joining the motorcycle department in November last year. He says he also sees BMW’s future involvement in racing other than WSBK, FIM World Endurance, and German IDM series.
He added, “It has to make sense for us, that’s clear, and that’s why we are taking a detailed look at it.
“I would not rule it out.”
In fact, Dorna is keeping two grid spots open for an additional factory entry after Suzuki pulled out, to the consternation of KTM who had wanted that spot for 2024.
BMW has also already assembled a strong team in developing their two-wheeled racing programs. Former EWC and WSBK champion (and former Suzuki MotoGP test rider) Sylvain Guintoli heads the EWC team and WSBK development programme. While MotoGP podium finisher Bradley Smith is contracted as the other test rider.
2021 WSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu as BMW’s factory rider has yielded immediate top results too, scoring two wins and two podiums from six races (including Superpole) in two rounds thus far.
Could this finally be the news BMW fans have been waiting for? Watch this space!
