In an evolving world, the objectives and strategies of big companies change according to new scenarios. When BMW officially entered WSBK, it was 2009 and the main reason for that decision was the launch of the Bavarian manufacturer’s first sports bike: the S1000RR. With this four-cylinder motorcycle, the German manufacturer, which until then had been known for its touring bikes, entered into competition with the sporting brands that stood out, such as Kawasaki or Ducati, and planned to challenge them in the championship dedicated to production bikes.
We all know how that turned out: many millions, many riders, but… no titles. In 2019, Munich decided it was time to try again and created another official team. Until this year, history seemed to be repeating itself, but Toprak Razgatlioglu looks set to break the long fast and add a world motorcycle title (it would be his first ever) to the German manufacturer’s trophy cabinet. We’re only at the start of the season and the road is still long and full of obstacles, but in Munich they’re already dreaming.
A possible success in WSBK would open up new horizons for the Bavarian manufacturer which, once it has achieved its goal (and consolidated its presence in the sports bike sector), could set new and more ambitious goals, accepting the flirtation that Dorna and MotoGP have been engaged in for some time. Not forgetting that a BMW in MotoGP would be the icing on the cake for its new owner, John Malone’s Liberty Group.
When the Turk signed his contract with the German manufacturer, more than one rumor mentioned that a future move to MotoGP (after winning the WSBK title) was also included in the contract. But between saying and doing there is… Ducati with its riders and the GP regulations that will change in 2027.
At the moment, these are just rumors, but “paddock radio” has taken them seriously, so much so that there are also rumors of the German manufacturer’s interest in Andrea Iannone, with a view to 2025 and a possible future entry into MotoGP.
It’s never too early to talk about the rider market, not least because at the end of this season some important contracts come to an end, not least that of world champion Álvaro Bautista. Will the Spaniard renew for another season or will he retire?
If Álvaro decides to leave WSBK, Andrea Iannone’s candidacy as Nicolò Bulega’s partner would be strong. At 34 years of age, he can’t afford to have many seasons in between, so it’s normal for Iannone to look to the future.
What if Bautista stays? Right now, BMW could seize the opportunity and create a real dream team, made up of the former MotoGP rider and Razgatlioglu. Michael Van der Mark’s contract expires at the end of the year and Iannone could therefore be the ideal candidate for the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in 2025.