BMW Considering MotoGP Entry Under New CEO

Kosport Magazine – BMW, one of the most‍ prestigious manufacturers in the world, has long been absent from the MotoGP grid. However, with a new CEO at the helm and a new set of rules coming in 2027, that⁢ could all⁢ change.

For years, BMW has shied away from entering the premier class of motorcycle ⁢racing, believing it was not the right platform to ‍market its products. But with the recent appointment of Markus Flasch as the new CEO of BMW Motorrad, the German manufacturer is now open to the idea of joining MotoGP.

In an interview ⁢with Kosport Magazine, Flasch stated that BMW M has been a MotoGP‌ vehicle partner for years ‌and that he has attended all the races, ⁣getting to know the people ⁣in charge. He also mentioned that BMW is a brand with a strong presence in the series.

Flasch went on to say, “But it’s clear that it ⁣has to make⁢ sense for us, and that’s why we’re taking a close look at it. I wouldn’t rule it out.” This is a significant change in stance from BMW’s previous CEO, Markus Schramm, who repeatedly dismissed any talks of joining MotoGP.

However, under Schramm’s ⁣leadership, BMW did return‍ to top-level⁣ motorcycle racing⁤ in ‌2019 with a factory team in the World Superbike Championship. And ⁢now, with Flasch‍ at the helm, the possibility of a MotoGP programme is being seriously considered.

Apart from WSBK, BMW also‍ has a presence in the FIM Endurance World Championship and the German IDM series. Flasch mentioned that they are keeping an eye on these commitments and are also considering other formats.

As a brand, BMW has always been heavily involved in motorsport, and Flasch is ​a strong advocate for it.⁤ In fact,​ he was the one⁤ who merged BMW M GmbH with BMW Motorsport in 2021. He believes that motorsport plays ‌a crucial role in strengthening the brand and‌ creating enthusiasm among its community.

With⁢ the upcoming changes in MotoGP, ‌including the switch⁢ to ‍smaller capacity engines and ⁤fully sustainable fuel, Dorna is hoping to attract more manufacturers to ​the series. ⁣And with the sudden departure of Suzuki, there is a⁤ desire ⁣to have six manufacturers on the grid.

This has sparked⁤ talks of a potential BMW entry, and Flasch’s openness to the idea is a positive sign. However, he also clarified that the WSBK programme is not the only option for ⁤BMW, and they are considering other options as ⁤well.

In the coming months, there will be further changes at BMW, with current head of two-wheel motorsport, Marc Bongers, fully focusing on WSBK from June onwards. Sven Blusch will take over as the head of ‌the racing division at BMW Motorrad.

In conclusion, BMW’s potential entry ‍into MotoGP is an exciting prospect for ‍both the manufacturer and the series. With a strong presence in other top-level motorcycle racing‍ championships, it would be a significant step for BMW to join the premier class. And with Flasch’s passion for motorsport, it could be a game-changer for the brand.