BMW has postponed its decision on entering MotoGP, making the previously targeted 2027 debut appear unlikely. Despite BMW’s strong presence in the WorldSBK series with rider Toprak Razgatlioglu, the German manufacturer remains hesitant about committing to MotoGP at this time, as it continues to evaluate its strategic direction.
History of BMW’s Interest in MotoGP and Recent Attempts
Since the MotoGP prototype era began in 2002, BMW has shown intermittent interest but never advanced beyond concept stages. Following Suzuki’s exit from the sport in 2022, BMW was approached to take over Suzuki’s team, but Dorna, the sport’s commercial rights holder, blocked the transaction. Earlier in 2023, BMW discreetly attempted to buy KTM’s racing division, but the deal fell through when KTM retained full control thanks to Bajaj’s backing. These setbacks have contributed to BMW shelving near-term MotoGP plans.
Strategic Considerations Amid 2027 Regulation Changes
The 2027 MotoGP rule changes are significant, with new 850cc engines, reduced aerodynamic restrictions, no ride-height devices, and a switch to a new tire supplier, creating an appealing environment for new manufacturers. BMW’s CEO Markus Flasch, speaking in an interview with Australian Motor Cycle News in July, acknowledged the ongoing internal discussion but emphasized no final decision has been reached yet.
“We haven’t made a final decision yet,”
—Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad
Flasch also noted the company has not started any technical development for a MotoGP bike and expressed skepticism about meeting the 2027 deadline.
“First, we’ll make the strategic decision, and then we’ll define the technical path to follow. 2027 is definitely not viable for us,”
—Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad
He highlighted that BMW is weighing different motorsport routes, including continuing to support WorldSBK and exploring off-road disciplines.
“We’re constantly working on our motorsport strategy: GP is one option, off-road is another and, besides, WSBK is doing fairly well – it’s just very European. So please give us a few more months, and we’ll give you an answer,”
—Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad
Challenges Limiting BMW’s Entry into MotoGP
BMW’s hesitation is also tied to Dorna’s decision to cap the MotoGP grid at 22 bikes, representing 11 teams (five factory and six satellite). New manufacturers must enter through partnerships with existing satellite teams, as was the case with Aprilia’s initial collaboration with Gresini in 2015. Since the grid is full, BMW cannot directly add a new team without acquiring a current slot.
The potential sale of Hervé Poncharal’s Tech3 team to an investment group led by Formula 1 team principal Guenther Steiner has been speculated as a possible opportunity for BMW to secure entry. However, due to timing and ongoing negotiations, a 2027 debut is now regarded as unrealistic.
Impact on BMW’s MotoGP Ambitions and Future Outlook
With Toprak Razgatlioglu moving to Yamaha for his 2024 MotoGP programme, BMW loses a key centerpiece initially envisioned for its MotoGP project. This shift, combined with grid restrictions and delayed strategic clarity, has pushed BMW’s potential MotoGP participation further into the future. The company remains active in other motorsport avenues, maintaining flexibility in its racing commitments while monitoring the evolving MotoGP landscape.
BMW’s careful approach reflects the complexities faced by new entrants in MotoGP, where technical development, competitive readiness, and grid limitations create significant barriers. Fans and industry insiders will now watch closely for BMW’s next moves as it reassesses how to best leverage changing regulations and market conditions.
