BMW stands out as a notable name that has yet to launch a factory team in MotoGP, previously believing the platform wasn’t the ideal venue for showcasing its products. However, with Markus Flasch stepping in as the new CEO of BMW Motorrad at the end of last year, and with MotoGP introducing a new set of rules in 2027, the German manufacturer is now open to the possibility of joining grand prix racing.
Flasch shared his thoughts on the matter with the German publication Motorrad. He highlighted BMW M’s longstanding role as a MotoGP vehicle partner and his personal familiarity with the racing scene and its key figures. “BMW M has been deeply involved with MotoGP for years. I’ve attended all the races and know the organizers well. We’re already a visible brand there,” Flasch stated. He emphasized the importance of the venture making sense for BMW, indicating a careful consideration of their potential involvement. “I wouldn’t dismiss the idea,” he added.
BMW’s involvement in premier motorcycle racing isn’t new, thanks to its factory team in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK). However, stepping into MotoGP would represent a significant expansion of its racing endeavors. Beyond WSBK, BMW also competes in the FIM Endurance World Championship, which features the renowned Suzuka 8 Hours enduro, and the German IDM series. Flasch mentioned, “We’re evaluating our commitments, including the Endurance World Championship and the IDM, to decide if we’ll explore additional formats.”
This openness to MotoGP marks a departure from the stance of Flasch’s predecessor, Markus Schramm, who consistently avoided discussions about entering the premier class. Despite this, Schramm was a strong advocate for motorcycle racing, overseeing BMW’s return to WSBK in 2019 with Shaun Mir Racing. Under his leadership, BMW’s WSBK program has seen significant growth, including signing 2021 champion Toprak Razgatlioglu as it aims for its first dry-weather win since its comeback.
Flasch, who transitioned to BMW Motorrad in November last year after a lengthy tenure with BMW’s high-performance M road car division, played a pivotal role in integrating the motorsport division under the M brand in 2021. He described himself as “a staunch supporter of motorsport,” stating, “As the head of BMW M, I was instrumental in merging BMW M GmbH with BMW Motorsport. I firmly believe in the positive impact of motorsport on brand strength and fan engagement.”
Looking ahead, BMW is preparing for organizational changes, with Marc Bongers focusing solely on WSBK from June, and Sven Blusch taking over the racing division at BMW Motorrad. Flasch clarified that these changes do not indicate a preference for one racing series over another but confirmed that WSBK is not BMW’s only consideration.
The potential for BMW’s entry into MotoGP comes as Dorna, the series’ organizer, aims to expand the grid to six manufacturers, especially after Suzuki’s unexpected departure two years ago despite a long-term agreement. With MotoGP planning to introduce smaller 850cc engines and fully sustainable fuel by 2027, these significant changes could entice BMW and other brands to join the series.