BMW has today announced it will quit World Superbikes and terminate its factory support at the end of the season, in order to concentrate on the ‘customer sports program’. This could spell the end of Chaz Davies’ well-earned factory contract.
“BMW Motorrad Motorsport will end its involvement in the World Superbike Championship after this season”, explained Stephan Schaller, General Director BMW Motorrad. “This is consistent with the strategic realignment of our brand. BMW Motorrad will now focus on the further expansion of the very successful product portfolio over 500 cc, the expansion of product segments under 500 cc, e-mobility and the development of market potential in emerging economies like Brazil and Asia. Only those who act consistently today are well prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. BMW Motorrad will remain involved in motorsport and in doing so we will focus on the international customer sport in all its facets. I want to thank everybody who has supported us on this long and successful journey.”
Feel racing, who currently run the GoldBet BMW squad, also ran the official Ducati team several years ago and will more than likely continue with WSB racing in some guise. And we can almost guarantee this won’t mean the end of BMWs in World Superbikes.
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“The team is a very professional and motivated group of people and I am sure they will continue to do everything to end the season on a high note”, commented Andrea Buzzoni, General Manager BMW Motorrad WSBK. “Twenty thirteen is a good year, the atmosphere within the team is great and also our riders, Marco Melandri and Chaz Davies, are doing an excellent job. We are satisfied with the current results and, of course, we will keep working hard. Therefore I am convinced we can celebrate more successes with Marco and Chaz as the season goes on. I am sorry about the decision, but I understand the strategic decision making of the company. I want to thank all the people who are involved in this project.”
2013 is the first season in years where MotoGP boasts more riders on the grid than WSB. And with BMW’s absence, that leaves just Aprilia and Kawasaki as official factory teams. Not looking too dandy, is it?
