Axel Bassani to WorldSBK will re-energise him. Winding back the clock to the beginning of 2024 season, many thought that Toprak had made a huge mistake moving from Yamaha to the almost chronically underperforming BMW. In reality, it was an inspired move, culminating in a second title for Toprak and a first for BMW. He then went on to repeat in 2025 with Bulega only missing out on the title right at the end of the season. Consequently, Petrucci and Oliviera inherit a bike that’ s been at the forefront of WorldSBK for the last two seasons but how much of that is the Toprak-factor and how much is it due to the capabilities of the bike? Toprak can do things with a bike that no one else can so will the team maintain the rage that they’ ve had for the last couple of years? Toprak’ s crew chief, Phil Marron, has also moved to MotoGP, joining KTM where his calm and studious approach may help them achieve the stability sorely needed. With this much upheaval in the BMW garage, how long will it take for the new team to establish itself having dealt with so much change?
DUCATI Outside of BMW, six times WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea retired from competition and joined WorldSBK Honda as a test rider. Multiple champion Alvaro Bautista was not renewed by the Aruba. it Ducati factory squad but still scored a competitive ride by jumping on the seat at Barni Ducati that Petrux vacated. Bautista is 41 years old and perhaps not now a genuine championship contender but Barni Spark would hope that he will continue the good work of Petrucci and get the bike on the podium on a fairly regular basis. Yari Montella stays with Barni Spark for a second season and could pull a few surprises too. Nicolo Bulega, who would have to be seen as clear favourite for the title, remains with Aruba. it Ducati and is joined by Iker Lecuona, quick
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