The 2027 WorldSBK season will mark a new chapter with Michelin taking over as the sole tyre supplier, replacing long-time partner Pirelli. But beyond the technical revolution, the rider market is delivering just as much drama. Several big names have secured their seats, while others remain in limbo.
Shockwaves were sent when reigning champion Nicolo Bulega opted to leave for MotoGP. His departure left a massive void at Aruba.it Ducati. However, Ducati wasted no time. They secured Iker Lecuona and are now persuading Franco Morbidelli to return to Borgo Panigale. Morbidelli, currently at Pertamina Enduro VR46 in MotoGP, is rumoured to have a verbal agreement and is awaiting an official announcement.
Interestingly, the flow from MotoGP to WorldSBK is intensifying. After Jack Miller joined Pata Maxus Yamaha, Brad Binder is now tipped to follow. Binder, whose KTM MotoGP contract expires in 2026, is said to have signed a secret deal with a satellite Ducati team. If realised, it will be a reunion for ex-MotoGP riders in Superbike.
Not just Binder, Maverick Vinales remains a mystery. The Spaniard has yet to find a MotoGP seat for 2027 and has been linked with several WorldSBK teams. However, he has not announced his final decision. Meanwhile, Alex Rins has closed the door on WorldSBK, choosing to stay in MotoGP with Yamaha.
In the BMW camp, Miguel Oliveira has been officially announced for the 2027 season. Oliveira, currently with Trackhouse Racing in MotoGP, will join the Munich-based team. This is a strategic move by BMW to return to the front after a disappointing 2025 season. Meanwhile, 2022 world champion Alvaro Bautista has yet to decide his future. The veteran is reportedly weighing offers from several teams, including a possible return to Ducati or a switch to Yamaha.
At Yamaha, Pata Maxus has confirmed the duo of Jack Miller and Andrea Locatelli. They will be the backbone of the R1's development with Michelin tyres. Meanwhile, satellite team GYTR GRT Yamaha has locked in Remy Gardner and Stefani Manzi. Gardner, impressive this season, will be retained, while Manzi embarks on his second WorldSBK season.
Other teams like Barni Ducati, Kawasaki, and Marc VDS Ducati have also announced their riders. Yari Montella stays with Barni, Garrett Gerloff joins Kawasaki, and Sam Lowes moves to Marc VDS. Meanwhile, Motoxracing Yamaha still has two TBC seats to fill.
With many seats still open, the 2027 WorldSBK rider market is set to heat up in the coming months. Especially with Michelin's arrival, every team wants the best line-up to face the new challenge. Stay tuned for more updates only on Sportrik.
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