BMW works rider Miguel Oliveira: His thoughts on Petrucci and Binder

The 2027 Superbike World Championship officially got underway for Miguel Oliveira with the winter test in Jerez on 22–23 October. The Portuguese rider was supported by test rider Michael van der Mark, as his collaboration with Danilo Petrucci ended with the season finale and new signing Brad Binder was not yet available – the South African must first complete the 2026 MotoGP season before he can devote himself to his new role.

The focus of BMW’s work was on the new chassis for 2027 and the Michelin Superbike tyres. Oliveira hopes to be able to regularly challenge for podium places in his second season on the M1000RR.

Given that Petrucci didn’t get off to a flying start with the BMW, it will be interesting to see how difficult or easy things will be for Binder. Oliveira rates both highly, although saying goodbye to the Italian was very hard for him.

“Danilo isn’t just a very good rider, he’s also a brilliant team-mate. We always worked together to provide BMW with useful feedback. But not only that – with him, we had a very pleasant atmosphere in the pits – and that’s very important,” explained the 31-year-old. “He’s just a brilliant bloke and it makes me sad that he won’t be in this paddock any more. I wish him nothing but the best for his future.”

In Brad Binder, Oliveira will have a new team-mate whom he already knows well from his time at KTM in MotoGP.

“He naturally brings a lot of pace to the table and is aggressive on the bike. I hope he can draw on his experience to help develop our bike into a winner. That’s our ultimate goal,” emphasised the Portuguese rider. “What you expect from a team-mate is that he challenges you and pushes you to the limit. We want to win a few races and be on the podium more regularly. Then I’d be satisfied.”