Danilo Petrucci will replace the departing Toprak Razgatlioglu at BMW for the 2026 WorldSBK season.
Petrucci joined the WorldSBK paddock in 2023, reuniting with the Barni Spark Racing Team where he began his career in the Superstock 1000 Cup. He finished seventh and fifth in the 2023 and 2024 campaigns.
In 2025, however, he currently sits third in the 2025 classification charts, behind title protagonists Razgatlioglu and Nicolo Bulega.
The switch over to the Bavarian brand means Petrucci will now move to factory machinery for the first time in WorldSBK.
Speedweek’s report stated that a verbal agreement had been reached between the two parties at the inaugural Balaton Park round.
Now that it’s been officially announced by both parties, Petrucci stated: “I’m really happy to join BMW Motorrad Motorsport for the next season in World Superbike and proud that I will ride the bike that currently bears the number one.
“It was my target to ride a factory bike because I really want to fight for the World Championship title. So, I think that this is the step that I needed to get in the position to achieve that goal.
“I can’t wait to join the team, and I want to thank everyone at BMW and all those people at home who support me.
“I also want to thank the Barni Spark Racing Team for these three years in World Superbike and that they enabled me to get into a factory team, which has been my target.”
As BMW has yet to reaffirm its commitment to the series beyond 2026, the Italian has signed only a one-year deal.
Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport, added: “We are very pleased to welcome Danilo Petrucci to our BMW Motorrad Motorsport family in 2026.
“We are confident that we can continue our success story in WorldSBK with Danilo. His move to BMW Motorrad Motorsport is more than just a new contract – it is a recognition of his hard work throughout his career.
“Danilo has more than earned his place as a factory rider, and we are convinced that his passion and skill will help lead our team into the future.
“His impressive career across various motorsport disciplines is a testament to his talent and ability to perform under the most demanding conditions.
“Danilo has not only excelled on the track but has also won the hearts of fans with his unique character and authenticity.
“He’s a true fighter who never gives up, and his positive attitude inspires not only his team but everyone who follows him.
“We look forward to the challenges and successes ahead, and we are proud to soon have Petrux as a member of our BMW Motorrad Motorsport family.”
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