Brad Binder makes switch from MotoGP to World Superbikes

South African motorcycle racing star Brad Binder is set for a major new chapter in his career after being confirmed as a rider for the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team from the 2027 season.

The 30-year-old will leave MotoGP after six seasons and make the switch to the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, where he will race BMW’s M 1000 RR as a factory rider.

The move represents a significant change for Binder, who has established himself as one of South Africa’s leading representatives on the international motorcycle racing scene.

Brad Binder’s rise through the Grand Prix ranks began with a breakthrough Moto3 World Championship title in 2016.

He subsequently progressed through Moto2 before stepping up to MotoGP, where he became a regular front-running competitor.

During his MotoGP career, Binder recorded two Grand Prix victories and nine additional podium finishes, underlining his ability to compete at the highest level of prototype motorcycle racing.

He will now face a completely different challenge in WorldSBK, competing on production-based machinery against some of the biggest names in global superbike racing.

Binder’s race craft, experience and ability to adapt will be key as he learns the characteristics of the BMW M 1000 RR and adjusts to the demands of his new championship.

The South African will also reunite with Miguel Oliveira, adding an interesting subplot to his move to WorldSBK.

Binder and Oliveira have crossed paths throughout their careers, competing against each other and alongside one another in Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP.

Oliveira will also form part of BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s WorldSBK line-up, meaning Binder will have a familiar face alongside him as he begins his new adventure.

Brad Binder’s arrival will also coincide with a change within BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s WorldSBK programme.

Danilo Petrucci is set to leave the team at the end of the 2026 season, although BMW Motorrad Motorsport is exploring opportunities to continue its relationship with the Italian through other projects.

For Binder, though, the attention will now turn firmly towards 2027.

After six seasons racing prototype machinery in MotoGP, the South African will have the opportunity to start afresh and challenge for success in one of the world’s premier production-based motorcycle championships.

His arrival is likely to generate considerable interest among South African fans, who will once again have one of the country’s leading riders competing on the global stage.