To the WorldSBK 2026 with Petrucci and Oliveira

Danilo Petrucci is familiar with the biggest stage in motorsports. And he can recognise a career-defining moment. Joining BMW Motorrad Motorsport as a new factory team rider in the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK team is one of these moments, and marks the achievement of a long-term goal. The 35-year-old Italian was born on 24th October 1990 in Terni. His journey has been one of courage, discipline and a determination to keep going. From Superstock Sport to the MotoGP, right up to the WorldSBK, he has developed his unmistakeable style: honest, tenacious, uncompromising.

After many years in the MotoGP, with nine seasons as a regular rider between 2012 and 2021, as well as additional performances in 2022 and 2023, Petrucci was actively looking for new challenges. The Rallye Dakar 2022, in which he was the victor of one stage. Then, there was the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, where he achieved second place. Ultimately, he entered the WorldSBK, joining the private Barni Spark Racing Team in 2023. 93 races, 20 podium places, three victories. In both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, he came in fifth overall, making him the best independent rider. A record that states much more than just the figures: it shows his endurance, learning curves, and character. Propped up by his strong performance in his early years, he has grown into a rider who is always wanting more.

Now comes the step that he has long been striving for: joining the factory team to compete for the title in the WorldSBK. Start number 9, with Crew Chief Marcus Eschenbacher at his side. BMW Motorrad Motorsport applauds his consistent hard work and versatility across different classes. Petrucci himself looks back with gratitude on the three intensive WorldSBK years with Barni, which paved the way for this latest development. He looks to what lies ahead with pride and pure resolve.

Miguel Oliveira’s story is shaped by his ambition in his early years on the scene, which drove him through the classes like a quiet engine. Born on 4th January 1995 in Almada, Portugal, he emerged as one of the strongest talents in his home country very early on. From the Spanish 125cc Championship, to the 125cc World Championship in 2011, right up to four intensive years in the Moto3, he was able to develop his own style: calm, precise, unshakeable.

In 2016, he moved up to the Moto2, where he took third place in 2017 and second place in 2018 – a taste of what was to come. From 2019 onwards, Oliveira was able to shake up the MotoGP. He achieved five wins and four additional podium places, and created a presence that commanded respect. After seven years, he is now at the start of a new chapter: with start number 88 and the support of Crew Chief Andrew Pitt, Miguel Oliveira is joining the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK team for 2026.

For BMW Motorrad Motorsport, he is bringing precisely the kind of professionalism and experience that will be decisive in the next step. Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport, emphasises that Miguel Oliveira is one of the most talented and versatile riders of his generation. And Oliveira? For him, this is a great step for his career, and he sees enormous potential in it. Working with a new team, having strong partners at his side, and preparing for a new championship format: these are the things that really motivate him.