Introduction to BMW‘s Racing Ambitions
BMW Motorrad Motorsport is set to launch into the 2026 season with a robust racing programme featuring formidable teams and elite riders. The factory teams include the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in the FIM Superbike World Championship and the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team in the FIM Endurance World Championship. Furthermore, several customer teams will also be competing globally, including three Official Teams: Orange Cat Racing from the USA, 8TEN Racing from the UK, and AutoRace Ube Racing from Japan.
Factory Racing: WorldSBK and FIM EWC Lineup
Following two consecutive world championship titles, the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, under Team Principal Shaun Muir, is ready for a fresh start in 2026. The new rider lineup features Danilo Petrucci (35, Italy), a proven competitor in the WorldSBK paddock, who will race on the #9 BMW M 1000 RR. Petrucci has previously secured victories and podiums despite facing injuries that sidelined him last season. Joining him is Miguel Oliveira (31, Portugal), who has transitioned from MotoGP to make his WorldSBK debut on the bike number 88. The WorldSBK season kicks off at Phillip Island, Australia, on 21st-22nd February.
The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, managed by Werner Daemen, came agonisingly close to securing the championship last season, finishing just 30 minutes short at the Bol d’Or finale. They earned the title of “World Champions of Hearts” after a technical failure relegated them to third place. For 2026, Michael van der Mark (Netherlands) joins the squad, having previously raced with the team at Suzuka in 2025. He will team up with returning riders Markus Reiterberger (Germany), Steven Odendaal (South Africa), and Hannes Soomer (Estonia) on bike #37. Van der Mark will also serve as a test rider for the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Test Team, while Reiterberger and Soomer will compete in the newly established EuroMoto series, with Odendaal defending his title in the Spanish Superbike Championship.
Customer Racing: Official Teams in Key Markets
BMW Motorrad Motorsport continues to thrive in customer racing, with numerous private teams claiming victories worldwide. In strategic markets, customer teams compete as BMW Motorrad Motorsport Official Teams, collaborating closely on communication and events.
Japan: AutoRace Ube Racing Team
The AutoRace Ube Racing Team has made significant strides in the Japanese Superbike Championship and FIM EWC. Regular rider Naomichi Uramoto will benefit from the experience of Sylvain Guintoli, a former Superbike and Endurance World Champion, who joins the team for 2026. Hannes Soomer will also contribute on bike #76.
USA: Orange Cat Racing
In MotoAmerica, Orange Cat Racing captured the Superstock title last season and now moves up to the MotoAmerica Superbike class. The team will field two BMW M 1000 RRs ridden by Jayson Uribe and Sean Dylan Kelly.
UK: 8TEN Racing
The 8TEN Racing Team from the UK is a leading contender in international road racing. Team owners and riders Davey Todd and Peter Hickman have amassed numerous victories, including successes at the Isle of Man TT and the Macau Grand Prix. Both riders will participate in the British Superbike Championship (BSB) as well.
Key Quotes from Team Leaders
Sven Blusch (Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport): “With our focus on building momentum after two world championship titles, we are eager to continue our success. Our team is primed for competition in both WorldSBK and EWC, especially with our experienced riders Danilo Petrucci and Miguel Oliveira.”
Christian Gonschor (Technical Director): “This year presents exciting opportunities with our mix of new riders and seasoned technicians. Our objective remains clear: consistent podium finishes across all classes.”
Shaun Muir (Team Principal, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “With our new rider combination, we are determined to continue our championship-winning legacy and provide the best support for our riders.”
Werner Daemen (Team Manager, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team): “We are well-prepared and focused on reclaiming the championship title we narrowly missed last year.”
Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “I am ready for the challenge ahead and eager to adapt quickly to secure competitive positions.”
Danilo Petrucci (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “Joining this championship-winning team is a proud moment for me, and I look forward to making my mark on the track.”
Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team): “I aim to help my team secure the world title after coming so close last year.”
Darren Jones (Team Manager, 8TEN Racing): “With more support this year, we are looking to deliver strong performances in both BSB and road racing events.”
Davey Todd (8TEN Racing): “I’m looking forward to building on last year’s successes and aiming for more victories in 2026.”
Peter Hickman (8TEN Racing): “This season is about hitting the ground running with a fully prepared team ready to compete across multiple events.”
