Dubai. BMW Group Middle East, the iconic premium automotive manufacturer, is delighted to unveil its partnership with Nigma Galaxy, one of the biggest esports teams in the MENA region. This exciting collaboration underscores BMW Group Middle East's involvement in the esports community, further supporting the rapidly growing local gaming scene.

Nigma Galaxy, a global esports brand, emerged in 2019 through the merger of Team Nigma and Galaxy Racer, and has quickly risen to prominence in the gaming world.

Founded by four of the most successful players in the esports realm, Nigma Galaxy boasts 6 esports teams competing across different games, including popular titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, PUBG Mobile, and more. At the forefront of developing esports infrastructure and nurturing local talent in the MENA region, Team Nigma has a very active presence in the gaming arena in the region and beyond, participating in top events such as Gamers8, currently taking place in Riyadh until August 31, 2023.

BMW Group Middle East has been steadily expanding its presence in the esports landscape the last few years, following a number of exciting partnerships with Publicis Groupe. The Nigma Galaxy partnership, which was defined and driven by Publicis Groupe together with BMW Group Middle East, will further accelerate the automotive brand’s presence in esports, elevating the gaming experience for enthusiasts around the world.

Dr. Hamid Haqparwar, Managing Director at BMW Group Middle East, said, "As a gamer myself, I am very thrilled to join forces with Nigma Galaxy, a leading player in the esports domain. BMW Group Middle East will continue to play an active role in the gaming community as part of its commitment to encourage and foster talents in the region. As we embark on this partnership, we aim to engage with gaming enthusiasts and create unforgettable experiences that reflect both Nigma Galaxy's and BMW's community values."

Emphasising the shared values that underpin this partnership, Christoph Timm, co-founder of Nigma Galaxy said, "This collaboration with BMW Group Middle East resonates deeply with our vision and values. BMW's passion for excellence and constant innovation aligns seamlessly with our commitment to pushing the boundaries of esports. Together, we aim to inspire and empower a new generation of gamers, supporting their dreams and aspirations in this exciting world of competitive gaming while creating unforgettable experiences that bridge the gap between the virtual and physical worlds."

The partnership between BMW Group Middle East and Nigma Galaxy is also sound when viewed around the latter’s core values of passion, innovation, people and sportsmanship. Both brands embody a relentless passion for what they do, striving to exceed expectations and elevate their performance to new heights. Innovation is deeply ingrained in their DNA, with BMW's commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology aligning with Nigma Galaxy's pioneering spirit in the esports industry.

The human element is central to their operations, as both organisations recognise the crucial role played by their teams and communities. Finally, sportsmanship serves as the foundation of their competitive spirit, whether it's while pushing the limits on the road or dominating the esports arena.

To announce the partnership, the brands unveiled a collab video featuring two of Nigma Galaxy’s top names, Hamody and LORD. The gamers put their skill and focus to the test while in the backseat of a BMW M5 Competition, demonstrating their exceptional abilities as they engage in esports while on the move in the dashing sports saloon at the Dubai Autodrome.

As Nigma Galaxy furthers its pursuit of nurturing local talent and promoting esports on a global stage, BMW Group Middle East is committed to supporting this mission through its extensive expertise and resources. With its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, Nigma Galaxy is uniquely positioned to develop talents in the Middle East, creating a stronger bond between the international esports league and the MENA region, while simultaneously opening doors for local talent to flourish.

The BMW-Nigma Galaxy partnership marks an exciting chapter in the esports industry, combining the legacy and innovation of the automotive brand with the talent and ambition of the esports team. Together, they strive to elevate the esports experience, create unforgettable moments for fans, and inspire the next generation of gaming enthusiasts.

Munich. The wait is over. This weekend, BMW Motorrad Motorsport kicks off its campaign in the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK). After the development period and winter tests, the new BMW M 1000 RR is now set for its race debut. For the first time, the 2021 WorldSBK grid will feature four riders on the BMW M 1000 RR. Tom Sykes (GBR) and BMW newcomer Michael van der Mark (NED) start for the works team, the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. Jonas Folger (GER) and Eugene Laverty (IRL) line up for BMW satellite teams Bonovo MGM Racing and RC Squadra Corse.

After a break of over half a year, the season gets underway with a double-header in Spain and Portugal. The first race weekend of the year will take place from 21st to 23rd May at MotorLand Aragón (ESP). This is followed just one week later (28th to 30th May) by round two of the season at Estoril (POR). In preparation for the season, BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the BMW teams were at MotorLand Aragón for a pre-season test roughly two weeks ago.

The new BMW M 1000 RR is a consistent development of the BMW S 1000 RR. At the heart of the new M RR is the engine. Like the engine for the production model, it has been developed specifically for racing. The chassis geometry and aerodynamics have also been improved. In a two-part video documentary, BMW Motorrad Motorsport shows the route from assembly to the racetrack, from the production of the engines at the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin (GER), and the assembly of the race bikes at the headquarters of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in Guisborough (GBR), to the works and satellite teams’ outings on the track at MotorLand Aragón. The videos are available for download and further use here in the BMW Group PressClub and can also be viewed on the BMW Motorrad YouTube channel: b.mw/Launch_2021_Part_1 and b.mw/Launch_2021_Part_2.

Quotes ahead of the opening round of the 2021 WorldSBK season.

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “We go into the 2021 WorldSBK season with a lot of new features. For example, we are obviously looking forward to the race debut of our BMW M 1000 RR. The tests went very well and, although we still have a bit of work ahead of us with the new bike, I am feeling very positive. I would like to say another big thank you to everyone who has been so full of enthusiasm for their role in the development, assembly and preparation of the M RR: our production colleagues and engineers in Munich, engine production in Berlin, the team members and, of course, our riders. Another important step for our WorldSBK project is the fact that we are now more broadly positioned than before. As well as our established works team, the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team, our family now also includes the satellite teams Bonovo MGM Racing and RC Squadra Corse. When it comes to the riders, we are also very strongly positioned, with Tom Sykes, Michael van der Mark, Eugene Laverty and Jonas Folger. Our goal for the season is to close the gap to the front-runners and claim our first win.”

Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “We are looking forward to finally get into the race weekend. It has been a long off-season between Estoril and this first round. I think we have really taken good steps forward with the BMW M 1000 RR and I am looking forward to see what we can do in race conditions. The weather is looking very favourable for Aragón and obviously we go over there where we last tested so we are confident we can find a good base setting very quickly and focus on race simulations. We are confident that Michael and Tom can start on the front foot and we can start our 2021 season in a positive style.”

Tom Sykes, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “I am very excited to finally get back racing, and what better way to do it than to do it with a double header? We start in Aragón, which is obviously a circuit I really enjoy riding. The target is quite clear for me: I want to get back winning races and being consistently at the sharp and the target for me as well as for the whole BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. On the other side, we have got a little bit of more work we need to do in order to get to there. So we will see. For me, I just want to get a good, clean start to the season and get some strong points on the board from these two race weekends. Aragón is such an enjoyable track. Also Estoril, a track which was my first time there last year. Overall, I am very confident and can’t wait to get things started.”

Michael van der Mark, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It has been such a long time without any racing. Testing of course is nice, riding the bike, developing the bike – but we are doing it all for racing. It has been a long winter so I am really looking forward to it and luckily we have two race weekends in a row. That is good, and also at races we can learn a lot more about the bike and try to develop it. In general, I think we are really well prepared, but for sure we have to make some more steps with the bike in development. But as I said, racing is always better as you can have a look at your opponents and see their stronger points and their weaker points. MotorLand Aragón is a nice track to start the season; especially after the test we had there. For us that’s really positive. Estoril is a lovely track as well. Last year, I had my debut on the BMW there, so I’ve ridden the BMW on both tracks and that for sure helps to make it a little bit easier. Regarding our goals for the first races: of course, we always want to fight for the podium but at the moment we are still developing the bike. I just want to get the best possible result. We will always try our best but at the moment I am still a little bit calm with expectations.”

Eugene Laverty, RC Squadra Corse: “This has been the longest off-season of my entire career and I am so excited for the season to finally begin. I have just three days of testing under my belt but I was smiling the entire time that I was riding after such a long period off the bike. I’m very happy with my new team RC Squadra Corse; all the guys made me feel very welcome and we have gelled immediately. I’m keen to realise the full potential of the new BMW M 1000 RR. The first two circuits of Aragón and Estoril were the toughest on the calendar for us in 2020 and so they will provide the biggest challenge. If we can be strong there then we can be strong anywhere.”

Jonas Folger, Bonovo MGM Racing: “I am looking forward to the season-opener, and to having two race weekends in a row. That is obviously awesome. I hope we make a good start to the season. We have done enough testing, and now it is finally time to go racing. The goal for the season is to finish in the top ten, and it would be great to really make a statement in one or two races. After that, we’ll see what happens. I am intrigued to see what we can achieve in the first few races.”

Note to editors:

The two-part BMW M 1000 RR video documentary on the team launch of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team is available on YouTube and attached here in the BMW Group PressClub:

YouTube: b.mw/Launch_2021_Part_1 and b.mw/Launch_2021_Part_2

Attached, you will also find our comprehensive Media Guide, containing all you need to know about BMW Motorrad Motorsport in WorldSBK 2021, the new BMW M 1000 RR, the teams, and the riders.

Munich. With the BMW iX (combined power consumption: < 21 kWh/100km in the WLTP test cycle*; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km), BMW Group ushers in a new age of mobility. The new fully electric BMW model interprets the electric mobility theme innovatively, making use of totally new technologies. The BMW iX, currently in the final stage of development, is due to come onto the market at the end of 2021. However, winter sports fans will get a taste of the new technology flagship in the coming months when under the motto ‘Born Electric’, the BMW iX takes centre stage in the extensive BMW winter sports commitment for the 2020/21 season.

BMW Group has supported the BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon, the BMW IBSF World Cup Bob & Skeleton and the FIL Luge World Cup as a strong partner for many years. As part of this commitment, BMW Group will now bring the BMW iX and the motto ‘Born Electric’ into the biathlon stadiums and to the ice channels.

Electric mobility reinterpreted.

The BMW iX is the first BMW model to be based on an all-new technology toolkit and was conceived from day one purely for electric mobility. It innovatively unites the areas of sustainability and climate protection, design, versatility and driving pleasure, and leads the way with future technologies that will also be incorporated into other BMW models in the foreseeable future. According to the latest predictions, the maximum output of the BMW iX will exceed 370 kW/500 hp – with absolutely zero emissions and tremendously low power consumption.

The BMW iX on a winter tour through Europe.

As part of BMW’s involvement in winter sports, the BMW iX is going on a huge tour of Europe in the 2020/21 season. The BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon will be heading to Kontiolahti, Hochfilzen, Oberhof and Antholz. The highlight of the season is the world championships in Pokljuka, Slovenia in February, followed by the season finale in Nove Mesto and Oslo. The locations for the BMW IBSF World Cup Bob & Skeleton and the FIL Luge World Cup include Sigulda, Innsbruck, Winterberg, St. Moritz and Königssee near Berchtesgaden. The Eisarena Königssee will also host the FIL Luge World Championships at the end of January. The BMW IBSF Bob and Skeleton World Championships will be held in Altenberg in the Erz Mountains in February.

* Data on driving performance, energy consumption and range are preliminary and based on forecasts.

• Gaganjeet Bhullar hits the shot of the tournament so far on the 17th hole at the BMW International Open: The Indian sinks his six-iron tee shot from 196 yards (179 metres).
• Florian Baumeister, Head of Events, Exhibitions and Sport Marketing BMW Germany, presents the keys to the BMW M8 Competition Coupé*, worth 193,880 Euro.
• First time since 2010 that the BMW Hole-in-One Award has been won in Munich.

Munich. Masterstroke in round two of the BMW International Open: Gaganjeet Bhullar hit an ace on the 17th hole on Friday. The six-iron earned the 31-year-old a dream prize: The BMW M8 Competition Coupé*, which will celebrate its world premiere in BMW Welt next week.

"This is my second hole in one in a professional golf tournament. Before starting this year, I discussed with my caddie one of my dreams. I said need to make at least one hole in one and choose the right one, I’m glad we made that commitment. It’s a great moment. BMWs are some of my favourite cars and I’d love to drive that car,” said the delighted world number 175 after receiving the key to his new wheels from Florian Baumeister, Head of Events, Exhibitions and Sport Marketing BMW Germany, and taking his place at the wheel of the luxury sports car.

This is the eighth time the Hole-in-One Award has been won in 31 years of the BMW International Open. The masterstroke was achieved in each of the four years that the tournament was held in Cologne: Andrew Marshall (ENG, 2012, BMW 640i Gran Coupé), James Heath (ENG, 2014, BMW i8), Richie Ramsay (SCO, 2016, BMW M760Li xDrive) and Aaron Rai (ENG, 2018, BMW i8 Roadster) were the lucky winners.

You have to go back a little further to find the last time anyone pulled off the dream shot in Munich: Back in 2010, Jean-François Lucquin (FRA) won a BMW 535i. His compatriot Raphaël Jacquelin had previously received the keys to a brand-new BMW Z8 in 2001. The first Hole-in-One car in the history of the tournament ever to be presented to a new owner was the BMW 325i Cabrio, which Jay Townsend took home in 1991.

The new BMW M8 Competition Coupé embodies the pinnacle of luxurious driving pleasure. It elegantly combines pure M genes with ultimate exclusivity – for sporty driving experiences on the roads and at the track. Its high-performance, M TwinPower Turbo 8-cylinder petrol engine develops an outstanding 460 kW (625 hp). Together with many highly-developed drivetrain and chassis components, inspired by motorsport, this makes for an unforgettable driving experience.

Whether in the DTM, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the ABB FIA Formula E Championship, or countless other championships: Week after week BMW teams and drivers around the world do battle for points, victories and titles. Away from the track too, members of the large BMW Motorsport family around the world are also creating headlines. The “BMW Motorsport News” allows us to regularly summarise all the action for you in a compact and informative manner. This way, you are always up to speed.

Blancpain GT World Challenge Asia: Victory and podium for BMW M4 GT4.

At the second race weekend in the Blancpain GT World Challenge Asia, BMW Team Studie continued the superb form shown at the season-opener. In Sunday’s race at the ‘Chang International Circuit’, the fourth race in the GT4 category, Takayuki Kinoshita and Sunako Jukuchou (both JPN) celebrated the third win of the season in their #81 BMW M4 GT4. The duo had crossed the line second on Saturday. Kinoshita and Jukuchou now have a commanding lead in the GT4 drivers’ standings, with 93 points out of a possible 100. BMW Team Studie is also in first place in the team standings.

Alessandro Zanardi: success at home World Cup event in Italy.

Since his appearance at the 24 Hours of Daytona (USA) at the end of January, BMW brand ambassador Alessandro Zanardi (ITA) has again been concentrating on paracycling. At the weekend, he was in action at his home World Cup event, the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Cup in Corridonia (ITA). He added another victory to his collection there on Friday when he won the individual time trial by a significant margin. “In my home country, along a circuit lined with fantastic people who supported me for the whole distance, reaching the podium and standing alongside two guys whose combined age is still less than mine; that is really special. I am delighted,” said Zanardi afterwards. On Sunday, he was part of the Italian national team that reached the podium by securing third place in the team event.

Tourenwagen Classics: Van de Poele and Hessel appearing in the BMW M3.

When the Tourenwagen Classics season starts as part of the upcoming DTM event at Zolder (BEL) this weekend, an historic BMW M3 from 1987 will be making an appearance with a very special driving duo. In front of his home fans, Eric van de Poele (BEL) will drive the BMW M3 with which he became DTM champion in 1987. Then as now, another legendary BMW driver will be by his side: Marc Hessel (GER). In 1987, van de Poele and Hessel were the DTM youngsters and team-mates involved in a thrilling battle for the title in the BMW Team Zakspeed. It was the Belgian driver who came out on top at the season finale at the Salzburgring (AUT). The historic BMW M3 will be appearing for Team 2.0 Automotive at Zolder. “My friend Marc got in touch a few weeks ago to ask if I fancied driving the former Zakspeed BMW M3 with him again. Of course, I thought this was a great idea,” says van de Poele. Hessel explains: “The extremely emotional time at BMW, when we fought one another for the DTM title, forged a strong bond between us. It's impossible not to reminisce about 1987. I am really looking forward to appearing together at the Tourenwagen Classics and I am sure that we will have a lot of fun.”

Daytona. BMW Team RLL took victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona (USA) . When the opening round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship was suspended due to heavy rain for the second time, the #25 BMW M8 GTE and drivers Connor De Phillippi (USA), Augusto Farfus (BRA), Philipp Eng (AUT) and Colton Herta (USA) were leading the GTLM class. The race did not resume, leaving the BMW drivers to celebrate victory. The appearance by Alessandro Zanardi (ITA) meant the team’s #24 car was the centre of much attention at the endurance classic in Florida. It proved to be a difficult race for the Italian and his fellow drivers John Edwards (USA), Jesse Krohn (FIN) and Chaz Mostert (AUS). The quartet eventually came home in ninth place.

This latest success was the third GTLM victory in the IMSA series for the BMW M8 GTE. BMW celebrated its first win at Daytona back in 1976 with the BMW 3.0 CSL. This was followed in 1997 and 1998 by two class victories with the BMW M3 GTR. Overall victory went to Daytona prototypes with BMW Power in 2011 and 2013. BMW Team RLL finished on the top step of the podium at Daytona for the first time.

De Phillippi, Farfus, Eng and IMSA debutant Herta enjoyed a largely trouble-free race. Herta set the fastest GTLM lap time of 1:42.908 minutes on lap 64. Heavy rain started to fall during the night, causing the track conditions to deteriorate from lap to lap. With seven hours remaining, race control decided to suspend the 24 Hours of Daytona for safety reasons for the first time. The race resumed under yellow flags roughly two hours later. In total, the 24 Hours was interrupted by yellow flags 17 times. When the cars were free to race again, the BMW drivers held their nerve, avoided making any mistakes and established themselves in the leading group. One lap before the race was suspended for the second time, Farfus, at the wheel of the #25 car, took the lead in the GTLM class. This ultimately proved to be the decisive moment in the race, as the race never resumed and the BMW drivers were left to celebrate a momentous victory.

By the first race-suspension, Zanardi and his team-mates were already several laps behind the GTLM leaders, following a number of stops for repairs on the #24 car. At the end of a pit-stop in the early stages of the race, the car was dropped off the air jacks at the very moment that Alex Zanardi, who lost both his legs in a crash in 2001, was pushing his specially adapted steering wheel into place on the column. As a result of the jolt, the column was damaged and Zanardi couldn't engage the steering wheel correctly. This coinciding of the two actions had never occurred in testing. The necessary repair work cost the #25 crew a lot of time. As the race continued, the BMW M8 GTE dropped further back, as a result of several smaller incidents. However, quitting was no option for Zanardi and his fellow drivers. Despite having little luck in the race, the appearance of the former ChampCar champion proved very popular at Daytona – with drivers, teams and fans alike.

Turner Motorsport raced with the #96 BMW M6 GT3 in the GTD class. After 560 laps, the team and drivers Jens Klingmann (GER), Bill Auberlen (USA), Dillon Machavern (USA) and Robby Foley (USA) finished tenth.

The race weekend was overshadowed by the news of the sudden death of long-term Schnitzer team principal Charly Lamm. In memory of Charly, BMW Team RLL competed with the words “Godspeed, Charly” on the rear of both BMW M8 GTEs at Daytona.

Jens Marquardt (BMW Motorsport Director): “What a race, and what an emotional win – and during such difficult days for the entire BMW Motorsport family. To stand on the top step of the podium here at Daytona after such an eventful and unpredictable 24 Hours is absolutely fantastic. Congratulations to Connor De Phillippi, Augusto Farfus, Philipp Eng, Colton Herta and everyone at BMW Team RLL. Congratulations also to our team in Munich, who have moulded the BMW M8 GTE into a real winner. We can be very proud of this success. Although the drivers of the #24 car had to settle for ninth place, after enduring a lot of misfortune during the race, they made BMW Motorsport history together. Alessandro Zanardi’s appearance sent a buzz through the racing community at Daytona and beyond. Together with Jesse Krohn, John Edwards and Chaz Mostert, Alex battled like a lion and refused to be disheartened by the set-backs in the race. That is precisely what makes him so special, and why the fans love him. Alex and his fellow drivers can also feel like winners after this race. We would like to dedicate this success to Charly Lamm. His loss is just as painful today as it was on Thursday, when we received news of his death. He would have wanted us to fight to the final lap here. We did that – and won it for him.”

Bobby Rahal (Team Principal BMW Team RLL): “What a great fight! Winning at Daytona is very special. When you consider where we finished here last year, then you cannot rate the effort of the entire team highly enough. Congratulations to the complete crew of the #25 car. But compliments also go to the #24 team, which unfortunately had a few issues in the race.”

Connor De Phillippi (#25 BMW M8 GTE, winner):  “That was a really crazy race, with dry conditions, rain and cold. My team-mates did a fantastic job. The car still looks new, even after 24 hours. Augusto, in particular, did an incredible job in the rain. We were able to show that our BMW M8 GTE is very reliable and competitive in all conditions. The whole team did a perfect job. We are Daytona winners. Incredible!”

Augusto Farfus (#25 BMW M8 GTE, winner): “This win is magical and of special significance to me. A few days ago, I lost a very important person in my life. I am sure that Charly was with me on the way to this success, so the win is for him. Now it is time to celebrate!”

Philipp Eng (#25 BMW M8 GTE, winner): “The tension in the final few hours was almost unbearable. We did not make any mistakes for 24 hours – and this is the result. We were able to match the pace of the others in the dry. But it is impossible to describe what Augusto then did in the rain. It was a joy to watch him and I am proud to have a team-mate like that. This victory is for Charly.”

Colton Herta (#25 BMW M8 GTE, winner): “That was spectacular! Strictly speaking, it was my first GT race ever – and with such a fantastic outcome. The best thing about it was my stint in the night, when the top five of the GTLM class were bunched closely together and we were battling for position. Then Augusto was simply incredible in the rain. He led us to the head of the field. I just cannot believe it all.”

Alessandro Zanardi (#24 BMW M8 GTE, 9^th place): “We have an incredibly intense race behind us – won by BMW. I am delighted. After all, I am part of the team, so I also feel a bit like a winner. Congratulations to the guys. Augusto, in particular, did an incredible job. From a sporting point of view, we did not achieve our goals with the #24 car. I feel incredibly sorry for everyone who worked so hard on this project, both in Munich and here in the USA. We really tested countless possible scenarios in the run-up to the race, and then something happens in the first pit-stop which has never happened before. But that is motorsport for you. We just have to accept it. That aside, my appearance here at Daytona, with all the fantastic reactions from the fans, colleagues and opponents has been like a fairy tale. I would like to say a big thank you to BMW Motorsport and BMW Team RLL for one of the best experiences of my life.”

John Edwards (#24 BMW M8 GTE, 9^th place): “The past few months, with all the testing I did with Alex Zanardi and the other guys, were a very special experience. It was an honour to work with such a fantastic character as Alex, both on and off the track. Unfortunately, the race was disappointing for us, as we had a few incidents too many in order to achieve a positive result. However, as a team we are obviously very pleased with the victory for the #25.”

Jesse Krohn (#24 BMW M8 GTE, 9^th place): “That was a tough race, in which we simply did not have any luck. The heavy rain did not make it any easier. It was impressive to see how Alex was able to keep the car on the track at all in those conditions, with the extreme aquaplaning. I am delighted that it worked out so well for the #25 car. The team really deserved it after all the hard work they did preparing for the race.”

Chaz Mostert (#24 BMW M8 GTE, 9^th place): “A number of factors were behind us not achieving the result we had hoped for in this race. However, all in all, competing in this race and working with a special person like Alex Zanardi, not forgetting John Edwards and Jesse Krohn, has been fantastic for me. I will never forget this amazing experience.”

• BMW and BMW M have been partners of MotoGP organisers Dorna Sports since 1999.
• New BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car heads the 2018 fleet of safety cars.
• A total of seven BMW M high-performance cars taking care of safety.

Munich. A special MotoGP season gets underway for BMW M GmbH at the “Losail International Circuit” in Qatar this weekend (16^th to 18^th March): it is BMW M’s 20^th season as “Official Car of MotoGP”. BMW and BMW M GmbH have been involved as partners of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports since 1999. Activities are focussed on providing the safety car fleet. In the 2018 anniversary season, the fleet will be headed by the new BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car. BMW M GmbH will provide a total of seven BMW M high-performance cars this year to ensure the safety of the race events.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dorna Sports for the faith they have shown in us for what is now two decades. Rarely do you come across such a long and successful partnership in sport, and we are proud of this special anniversary,” said Frank van Meel, President of BMW M GmbH. “When we partnered with MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports in 1999, our aspiration was to use all our expertise, innovative technology from motorsport and new ideas to serve safety in the MotoGP. That remains the case today. 20 years down the road, Dorna Sports still has a strong partner on board, in BMW M GmbH, for whom the safety of the riders takes top priority.”

The fleet of safety and official cars has always consisted of the latest BMW M models, optimised for use on the racetrack. Celebrating the 20^th anniversary, BMW M GmbH remains true with this philosophy and sets a real highlight with the new BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car.

The new course car is based on the high-performance sedan BMW M5 (combined consumption: 10.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 241 g/km)*, which was showcased to the global public for the first time in August 2017. The BMW M5’s technical features ensure perfect handling, even at the limits of driving dynamics. These features include the newly-developed M-specific all-wheel drive M xDrive, which is being used in the BMW M5 for the first time. The 4.4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology represents another significant increase in performance compared to previous models, with 441 kW/600 HP and maximum torque of 750 Nm in the production M5. Painstaking manual work at the BMW M Manufaktur in Garching converted the high-performance base car into the BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car, preparing it to appear as the course car in MotoGP.

In the 2018 season, the fleet of official MotoGP vehicles includes a total of seven different BMW M high-performance cars. Alongside the new BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car the BMW M3 Safety Car will also be in action. BMW M GmbH will provide the Safety Officer and the Race Director with a BMW M4 Coupé Safety Car with water injection and a BMW M2 Safety Car. In addition, the BMW X5 M Medical Car will take to the track this season and a BMW M6 Gran Coupé Safety Car also stands ready to be in action. Two BMW S 1000 RR, which BMW Motorrad provides as safety bikes, complete the 2018 safety car fleet.

Among the many other activities that make up BMW M GmbH’s commitment to MotoGP is the BMW M Award, which will be presented for the 16^th time in 2018. This award is presented at the end of each MotoGP season to the rider with the best overall result in qualifying.

The winner receives an exclusive BMW M car. The BMW M MotoGP Experience sees guests of BMW M GmbH experience an unforgettable race weekend. They are given an exclusive glimpse behind the scenes by BMW M MotoGP experts Loris Capirossi and Alex Hofmann. Furthermore, BMW M GmbH presents its latest models and products with on-site campaigns on selected Grand Prix weekends.

You can find more information on BMW M GmbH and the “Official Car of MotoGP” involvement in the comprehensive media guide attached and online at: www.bmw-m.com

Munich. With five new collection lines ranging from Motorsport Heritage, Motorsport BMW, Golfsport and Yachtsport to Active, BMW Lifestyle has unveiled the perfect accompaniments for a sporty, active lifestyle brimming with energy and action – in keeping with the arrival of spring 2017.

Urban athleisure with BMW Active. 
No longer will the head-turning impact of the camouflage worn by BMW pre-production vehicles be confined to the road. Their distinctive camo pattern brings a special design highlight to all of the items in the sporty and urban BMW Active. Blue and Olive shades, plus yellow design elements and reflectors, bring a modern flavour to the colour palette.

As well as an urban athleisure look, the Active collection also stands out with its lightweight, quick-drying and breathable materials – ideal for sporting excursions and outdoor activities. Handy features, including the jersey-lined drawstring hood and raised scarf collar of the BMW Active Sweatshirt, ensure the wearer enjoys unbeatable comfort and maximum freedom of movement.

In another neat twist, the collection contains not only useful outdoor accessories like the BMW Active Functional Towel and a hard-wearing luggage range, but also well-chosen canine accessories such as the BMW Active Dog Leash. So our four-legged friends can also embark on new adventures equipped with the right kit for the job at hand.

From history books to present day – the BMW Motorsport Heritage and BMW Motorsport Collection.
Inspired by the zeitgeist of the 1970s, the BMW Motorsport Heritage Collection stylishly reflects BMW’s long tradition in motor sport. The BMW Motorsport Leather Jacket in high-quality lamb’s leather is a genuine cult item and channels the spirit of the racing original.

The other items in the Heritage Collection likewise boast the original seventies BMW Motorsport logo, striking graphic lines and an eye-catching colour scheme. And they, too, exude a must-have appeal both for BMW Motorsport fans who have been there since the beginning and those with a soft spot for seventies culture and BMW classics.

Motor sport enthusiasts of the present day will be keen to explore the newly released BMW Motorsport Collection, which offers numerous styles – think striking BMW Motorsport stripes, dynamic styles and high-quality materials – designed to recreate that time-honoured BMW race feeling. A highlight of the collection is the BMW Motorsport Paper Jacket. Made from innovative, paper-like Tyvekâ material, this jacket can be written on with waterproof markers. Which makes it an essential wardrobe addition for trackside autograph hunters.

BMW Golfsport Collection – on the green in Navy and Fire. 
For those who prefer to wind down by hitting a golf ball or two, the BMW Golfsport Collection offers an exclusive selection of sporty, elegant outfits such as the BMW Golfsport Polo Shirt or the BMW Golf Functional Jacket and functionally adept equipment replete with clever features.

For example, the ultra-lightweight BMW Golfsport Carry Bag doesn’t just impress with its intelligently structured outer and inner pockets and seven club compartments, it also has lightweight aluminium legs (with a manual activator mechanism) that provide optimal ground contact. Aqua technology from OGIO, a removable, shape-retaining rain cover and waterproof zips and stitching team up to keep all of your golf gear dry, whatever the weather.

The smart Navy/Fire colour scheme of the collection will bring extra stylistic potency to any player’s swing, regardless of handicap.

The BMW Golfsport Gift Set will be equally well received by golf pros and fledgling members of the handicap ranks alike. Flip open the large, golf-ball-style gift box and you will find two high-qualify Pro V1 golf balls from expert partner Titleist, a pitch fork and a BMW Golfsport Cap. The cap has a handy magnet holder on its peak so you can keep the two ball markers with BMW logo (also included in the set) within easy reach at all times.

BMW Yachtsport Collection.
BMW Lifestyle continues to blow a refreshing breeze into the world of yachting as well. The successful BMW Yachtsport Collection contains items of baggage, accessories and apparel which impress with a sporty, elegant design and high quality. While wind- and water-repellent materials respond to the specific demands of yachting, casual styles and sophisticated details provide unbeatable comfort. The collection’s accessories also combine expertly functional materials and chic maritime design elements.

The BMW Sport Collections are available from April 2017 at shop.bmw.com as well as from selected BMW Centres and dealers.

Manufacturer’s recommended retail prices:
BMW Active Sweatshirts, woman and men: EUR 89.00
BMW Active Functional Towel: EUR 24.90
BMW Active Dog Leash: EUR 39.90
BMW Motorsport Heritage Leather Jacket, men: EUR 590.00
BMW Motorsport Paper Jacket. men: EUR 49.00
BMW Golfsport Polo Shirt, woman and men: EUR 65.00
BMW Golfsport Functional Jacket, woman and men: EUR 130.00
BMW Golfsport Carry Bag: EUR 280.00
BMW Golfsport Gift Set: EUR 55.00

Munich (DE), 4th October 2016. On Tuesday, Alessandro Zanardi (IT) started the decisive preparation phase for his maiden race in the BMW M6 GT3 with a successful day of testing in Mugello (IT). The BMW brand ambassador and BMW works driver will return to the same venue on 14th to 16th October 2016 for the season finale in the Italian GT Championship, driving a BMW Team Italia car that has been modified specially by BMW Motorsport. This will be Zanardi’s first competitive GT race since the 24 Hours of Spa Francorchamps (BE) on 25th and 26th July 2015. On that occasion, he shared driving duties in the BMW Z4 GT3 with BMW DTM drivers Timo Glock (DE) and Bruno Spengler (CA).

To ensure that they have the best possible preparation for the season-ending race weekend in the Italian GT Championship, Zanardi, BMW Team Italia and ROAL Motorsport team – supported by BMW Motorsport engineers – were testing on the 5.245-kilometre long circuit in Mugello, 40 kilometres north of Florence (IT). The Italian took the opportunity to familiarise himself with what is a new BMW race car for him. Sunny weather and temperatures reaching 21 degrees Celsius provided the team with ideal conditions to make some adjustments to the set-up for the BMW M6 GT3 ahead of the mid-October race weekend.

“That was a first for me in many different ways”, said the Italian driver after testing was completed. “It was my first time in a race car for more than a year, my first time in Mugello for many years and my first time in the BMW M6 GT3. The outcome of this test was excellent. The car worked well and we were able to fully concentrate on the set-up. The breaking mechanism I use worked well and it was relatively easy for me to reach the speed I expected to reach. I'm very happy with the result of the test day. Now we have some work to do with the engineers from BMW Motorsport. We will analyse the data we collected to finalize our preparation for the racing weekend.”

Zanardi celebrated his return to motorsport in 2014 after a four-year hiatus, competing for ROAL Motorsport that season in the Blancpain Sprint Series in a modified BMW Z4 GT3. Previously, he had contested 105 FIA World Touring Car Championship races between 2005 and 2009 for BMW Team Italy-Spain – claiming victory on four occasions. His last race appearance was at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in July 2015, driving the number 9 BMW Z4 GT3 in a special Michael Vaillant design livery.

Spielberg (AT), 24th July 2016. Retirements in both races, through no fault of their own: a strong performance in the BMW M6 GT3 by BMW DTM driver António Félix da Costa (PT), BMW Motorsport Junior Jesse Krohn (FI) and the Schubert Motorsport team went unrewarded on the fourth race weekend in the ADAC GT Masters at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg (AT).

Félix da Costa made his GT debut as a guest driver in the Schubert Motorsport BMW M6 GT3. Together with Krohn, he delivered a convincing performance on both race days but their races ended early on both occasions.

Krohn posted the second-fastest time in qualifying on Saturday. However, due to a disqualification the car was not able to start on the front row. They had to start the race from the back of the grid. Krohn and Félix da Costa mounted a great challenge and clawed back more than 20 places to move up to ninth. The BMW M6 GT3 was hit by another car and damaged so badly that Félix da Costa had to aim for the pits and retired from the race.

On Sunday, the Portuguese driver claimed a great fourth place in his first GT qualifying session. He defended this position in the race until he was hit by a competitor, a collision that turned him off the track. Félix da Costa re-joined the field in seventh and moved up one place before handing the BMW M6 GT3 over to Krohn in sixth position. However, the not-at-fault collision had damaged the clutch. Shortly after taking over behind the wheel, Krohn had to park in the gravel trap due to clutch problems.

The fifth race weekend in the ADAC GT Masters takes place from 5th to 7th August at the Nürburgring (DE).

Torsten Schubert (Schubert Motorsport Team Principal): “It is a shame that we didn’t get the results we had hoped for this weekend. Jesse and António did really well to catch up on Saturday. We could have scored some points even though we started from the back. On Sunday, António performed very well in qualifying. The fact that this was his first weekend in the BMW M6 GT3 makes this performance all the more impressive. He was only eight hundredths of a second away from pole position. A place in the leading pack would have been possible in the race itself, and maybe even a podium finish. But sadly it was not to be and we were not rewarded for our hard work.”

António Félix da Costa: “First of all I want to say that it was a really nice experience to drive the BMW M6 GT3 for the first time. I had a great feeling in the car and I want to thank the team who really helped me to get up to speed fast, and also Jesse. On Sunday, we had a great result within reach. Qualifying went really well and during the race we were hanging on to the group at the front and in the middle of the fight. Unfortunately, then the driver behind lost control of the car – obviously due to a defect – and hit me, damaging our car. I stayed on track as we were still running in seventh, which would have been good points, but I could feel that the clutch slowly started to fail. And after I handed the car to Jesse, the clutch did not work anymore. I feel very sorry for the whole team because they worked very hard and it would have been nice to give them a result. I think a podium would have been possible as Jesse would have been really strong in the second stint. So I am disappointed now but at the same time I had a lot of fun.”

Jesse Krohn: “Unfortunately all we had this weekend was bad luck. There was nothing we could do. On Saturday we were hit when we were on course for points, on Sunday the clutch was damaged when our BMW M6 GT3 was hit again. It really is a shame. It was really good to share the cockpit with António. He is a really professional and quick driver. I really enjoyed to share the car with him.”

Lausitzring (DE), 3rd June 2016. At the Motorsport Festival at the Lausitzring (DE), the DTM will compete in a joint event with the ADAC GT Masters and the SUPERBIKE*IDM. Together, these series stage one of the racing highlights of the year for fans on German soil. BMW is strongly represented on all three stages. So the Lausitzring is an opportunity for a real “family get-together” of BMW's racing programmes.

The event kicked off with a joint photo shoot on Thursday. At the EuroSpeedway, BMW DTM driver Martin Tomczyk (DE) took along his BMW M Performance Parts M4 DTM, while the BMW Motorsport Juniors Jesse Krohn (FI) and Louis Delétraz (CH) had their BMW M6 GT3, and the two BMW Superbike riders Markus Reiterberger (DE) and Mathieu Gines (FR) were there with the BMW S 1000 RR.

On Friday, first the former BMW Juniors and current DTM drivers Tomczyk, Timo Glock (DE) and Marco Wittmann (DE) visited the current juniors at work in the Schubert Motorsport pit during the ADAC GT Masters free practice session. Then later on, Krohn, Delétraz and Reiterberger were taken on an exclusive tour of the BMW Team Schnitzer garage by Tomczyk. The “family get-together” was rounded off with a joint dinner with BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. "The event here at the Lausitzring really lives up to its name 'Motorsport Festival',” said Marquardt. “It is great to see how the different BMW racing programmes come together here. DTM stars, experienced GT drivers and BMW Motorsport Juniors meet the guys on their BMW S 1000 RR. A magnificent show is put on for the fans.”

Tomczyk, who is racing in a BMW M4 DTM and a BMW M6 GT3 in 2016, and has also completed a few laps on the BMW S 1000 RR, said: “The BMW family is characterised by a great team spirit among the individual members. It is the perfect opportunity to present the DTM, GT racing and the Superbikes together here at the Lausitzring. It's fantastic. I meet up with my BMW colleagues from the other series, and also watch the practice sessions, qualifying sessions and races when I can.” Timo Glock added: “It is fantastic that we have everything from the DTM car through the GT racer to the motorcycle in one place at an event like this. Personally, I really enjoy meeting the BMW Motorsport Juniors, it reminds me of my own time as a BMW Junior.”

This weekend is also special to Krohn: “It is amazing to be part of this terrific show. This kind of event shows me just how large and diverse the BMW Motorsport family is. Meeting the DTM drivers in particular is always special. They are an example of the direction in which the BMW Motorsport Junior programme can take me.”

Reiterberger who, as the reigning IDM champion, contests the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship on the BMW S 1000 RR this season, came to the Lausitzring as a spectator and did not want to pass up the opportunity of meeting the other members of the BMW family. “I was still racing in the IDM the last two years that we competed alongside the DTM here. Now I have the time to look at all of the different BMW activities in more detail and to talk shop at length with my colleagues in the four-wheel camp,” said Reiterberger. “It is interesting to see the technology and the processes in the DTM and in GT racing – there are parallels with us, but also a lot of differences. I've got my fingers crossed for all the BMW drivers in the DTM, the ADAC GT Masters and naturally the riders in the IDM, so that we have plenty to celebrate this weekend.”

Munich (DE), 24th March 2016. The 2016 season of the ADAC GT Masters sees a BMW M6 GT3 with a very special driver line-up on the starting grid: The most successful BMW Motorsport Juniors of the past two years, Jesse Krohn (FI) and Louis Delétraz (CH), take the wheel of the car fielded by Schubert Motorsport. The BMW M6 GT3 will feature a dedicated livery for the ADAC GT Masters season.

Krohn, the “2014 BMW Motorsport Junior of the Year” will contest all of the ADAC GT Masters races in 2016. Last year he competed in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) in the BMW Z4 GTE, and celebrated class victory alongside his team-mates. Krohn also regularly competed at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife (DE) in the BMW Z4 GT3 in the second half of the VLN endurance championship season. He celebrated one season with Walkenhorst Motorsport and started from pole position at the finale. Krohn will contest numerous VLN races for Walkenhorst Motorsport once again in 2016, and will also support Turner Motorsport in the endurance races of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (GTD class) in North America. He finished in fifth place in the BMW M6 GT3 at the 24 Hours of Daytona (US).

“It is great that BMW Motorsport is offering me the opportunity to gain further experience in GT racing by competing in several series in 2016, and I am really looking forward to the season in the ADAC GT Masters,” said Krohn. “It is a very competitive championship and the races are always closely fought. It will be special to team up with Louis, as he is my successor as BMW Motorsport Junior of the Year. I have already raced the new BMW M6 GT3 in the US and have to say it is a very impressive race car. It is a fantastic car and I am convinced we will be competitive with it in the ADAC GT Masters from the word go. Schubert Motorsport is a very experienced team and knows the ADAC GT Masters very well. This makes me confident that we are well prepared for the season. We want to be involved in the fight for the top positions, and, from a personal point of view, I want to make the next major step in my development as a race driver this season.”

Krohn will receive support from his successor Delétraz, who was crowned best driver in the BMW Motorsport Junior Programme last year, at selected races in the ADAC GT Masters. After success in Formula racing, Delétraz completed his first 24-hour race for BMW Motorsport in Zolder (BE) in 2015, and gained experience in the BMW M235i Racing during the course of the year. He will take part in a total of four race weekends in the ADAC GT Masters. Both Juniors tested the BMW M6 GT3 for the first time together at the Lausitzring (DE) on Wednesday.

“I am already really looking forward to driving in the ADAC GT Masters with the BMW Motorsport Junior programme,” said Delétraz. “It will be my first complete season of GT racing and in a GT3 car. I am excited, as it will all be new to me – not just the car, but also the format, with longer races than I am used to from single-seater racing. I am sure it will be a fantastic season, with the support of BMW Motorsport. I have already done some testing with the BMW M6 GT3. It is a fantastic racing car. The feeling in the cockpit is magnificent. The support of experienced BMW drivers is very important to me, as they can teach me a lot that will help me continue to develop. My priority for this season is to learn a lot. However, my goal is also to be quick and to achieve the best possible results together with my team-mates.”

Established BMW works drivers will support the BMW M6 GT3 Juniors' car at three race weekends in the ADAC GT Masters. This sees BMW Motorsport continue a long-standing tradition of experienced racing drivers passing on their extensive knowledge to the next generation. Martin Tomczyk (DE), who will contest his 16th season in the DTM this year, will compete alongside Krohn at the opening race in Oschersleben (DE). Tomczyk can look back at his own experiences as a BMW Junior. In his very first season in the BMW Formula ADAC Junior Cup, the man from Rosenheim finished second in the overall standings. Just one year later he moved up into Formula BMW and clinched fourth place at the end of the season. Tomczyk took part in testing in the BMW M6 GT3 alongside Delétraz and the Schubert team in Oschersleben on 12th March.

“I'm really looking forward to being able to support the BMW Motorsport Juniors at the season opener of the ADAC GT Masters in Oschersleben,” said Tomczyk. “I experienced personally just how important BMW has always been to developing young talent, when I contested the BMW Formula ADAC Junior Cup at the age of 16. That was when I laid the foundations for my career. Now I am happy to use my experience to support the next generation of BMW Juniors. And I'm particularly pleased that I get to do this while at the wheel of the BMW M6 GT3 in the ADAC GT Masters. The race series is one of the most fiercely contested GT series and offers superb motorsport. On top of that, I will compete along with the Schubert team, which I know really well from my outings at the 24 Hours Nürburgring. It will be fantastic to drive for them at their home event in Oschersleben.”

The Juniors in action in the BMW M6 GT3 will also receive back-up from Jörg Müller (DE). He was involved in the development of the car from the very beginning, and will support them with all the experience he gained as a test driver. The veteran will contest the Japanese Super GT Championship for BMW Team Studie in a BMW M6 GT3 this year.

As mentor and head instructor, Dirk Adorf (DE) will continue to be responsible for the BMW Motorsport Junior Programme in general, and pass his wealth of experience on to the next generation. The potential candidates for this year's class were put to the test in a shootout in the BMW M235i Racing in Dijon (FR) on 10th/11th March. A decision as to which of the young drivers showed the most potential and will be chosen to take part in the 2016 BMW Motorsport Junior Programme will be made in the coming weeks.

The development of promising talented drivers enjoys a long tradition at BMW Motorsport. The new multi-level GT junior concept made its debut in 2014. This realignment saw BMW Motorsport shift its development of young drivers back to the GT and touring car sector. In Formula racing the concept bore fruit for many years in Formula BMW and the Formula BMW Talent Cup and kick-started the racing career of many successful drivers.

Munich. Pablo Larrazábal has won the BMW International Open 2011. In one of the most exciting final rounds in the tournament’s history and one of the most memorable conclusions to any European Tour event, the 28-year-old Spaniard emerged victorious from a play-off with his fellow countryman Sergio García. In the end, a birdie on the fifth extra hole sealed a famous win. Local favourites Marcel Siem (from Ratingen) and Martin Kaymer ended the tournament in a tie for 14th and 18th place respectively.

“Beating one of my heroes when I was growing up – and in a play-off as well – is just a dream,” beamed Larrazábal, who celebrated his second victory on the European Tour after his success in the Open de France in 2008. Barcelona-born Larrazábal, who finished third in last year’s event, dedicated the win to his late grandfather: “Last week we lost my grandad, the captain of the family, and this is for him.”

So high was the standard of play in this all-Spanish head-to-head that Larrazábal had to play the five extra holes in three under par to secure victory – and the €333,330 winner’s cheque. It was the longest play-off in the tournament’s history. Both players carded a 68 for their final round of regulation play, emphasising just how little there was between them. Larrazábal ultimately won the tournament with a four-round total of 272 (68+67+69+68, 16 under par).

17,400 spectators followed the dramatic finale live at the course. A total of 62,700 fans flocked to Eichenried over the tournament week, equalling the record set in 2006. Next year, the BMW International Open will take place for the first time in Pulheim near Cologne, before returning to Eichenried in 2013 for its 25th anniversary.

“We’ve seen spectacular shots and some truly wonderful golf,” summed up tournament president Karsten Engel, BMW Group Vice President Sales Germany. “The final stages of the tournament were unbelievably exciting as the two Spanish matadors went head-to-head. We would like to offer Pablo Larrazábal our warmest congratulations. This year we have welcomed even more golf fans to Eichenried, and now we’re looking forward to the 2012 edition of the BMW International Open at the new venue in Pulheim near Cologne.”

German superstar Martin Kaymer, who finished the tournament with a round of 69 for a total of 279, was also in positive mood. “I’m very happy with my game, but unfortunately I couldn’t hole enough putts,” said the world number three. “I’m on the right path and will take a lot of positives away from this BMW International Open.”

The major-winner and BMW Golf Ambassador sparked what can only be described as a bout of Kaymer-mania at Eichenried on Sunday. A crowd of mainly children and young people gave the 26-year-old a pop-star reception. Kaymer enjoyed the opportunity to meet the fans up close, and explained: “It’s all a lot of fun. I look forward to playing against these guys one day.”

One shot better off than Kaymer after the four rounds was Marcel Siem, who signed for a final-round 70. Kaymer’s fellow Rhinelander picked up six birdies, but three dropped shots at the par-5 holes deprived him of an even better result. “This is my home course and I got within touching distance of the leaders,” said a suitably consoled Siem. “I leave Eichenried in good spirits.”

The BMW International Open 2011 will also stick in the memory as a tournament of comebacks. Take Henrik Stenson, the former world number four and BMW International Open winner in 2006, who has since dropped out of the top 100 in the world rankings. After leading the field at the half-way stage, the Swede came home ninth. And the galleries also witnessed García emerge from the most difficult period of his career at Eichenried, the former world number two coming closer to winning a tournament than at any time since his last victory at the back end of 2008.

Larrazábal has also experienced some low points since that 2008 triumph in France, and his route to glory in the BMW International Open on Sunday featured plenty of surprising twists and turns. Six birdies over the first 11 holes took him clear of the leader at the start of the day, England’s Mark Foster. But García also had his foot firmly on the gas, following up birdies on five, six, seven and eight with eagles on nine and 11. A clenched fist and a bow before the galleries appeared to be the gestures of a man engaged in an inexorable charge to victory.

However, the Spaniard hasn’t won on the European Tour since 2008 and the nerves promptly set in. That eagle on 11 was followed by a run of three bogeys in grim succession and another dropped shot at the 16th. Only Larrazábal’s pair of bogeys at 13 and 16 kept García in with a chance of a play-off, an opportunity he grasped with both hands by holing a birdie at the last.

The overtime showdown took the two players back to the 18th hole, the iconic par-5 getting a second chance to host the closing drama of the BMW International Open. The Spaniards both nailed the perfect drive and were locked in animated conversation as they made their way down the fairway. Their second shots were likewise almost equal in their perfection, both landing in the heart of the green. Even on the putting surface, the two were reading from the same lines. First Larrazábal, then García slid their putts millimetres past the cup.

And so it was back to the 18th tee once again, and this time García was left with significantly more work to do after the two drives. However, a wonderful chip to the flag out of the rough in front of the green set him up for a birdie. Larrazábal needed two putts, so the decision remained in the balance.

The BMW International Open rule-book stipulates that the par-3 12th should be used as the third extra hole, and after the iron shots it was once again advantage Larrazábal, García having left himself a putt from the collar of the green. The ball set off bang on course, but pulled up at the last moment, teetering almost inexplicably on the lip of the hole. García sank to his knees. Larrazábal, though, was unable to capitalise and García lived on.

Next up was the 17th, another par 3. Again the pair both pulled out excellent tee shots, again the putts failed to drop. On this occasion it was Larrazábal who was just a whisker away. The Spaniard remained motionless on the green for several seconds, as if unable to take it all in.

Soon, though, he was sporting an altogether brighter expression. With the shorter holes having failed to pick a winner, back we went to the 18th tee. García’s drive left him better placed, but he struck his eagle putt so aggressively that it ended up well past the hole. His return putt also rolled agonisingly long, leaving his opponent with two putts for victory. Almost two hours after the end of his final round in regulation play Larrazábal finally holed the crucial putt to win a BMW International Open few of those present will ever forget.  

Dubai. After 48 golf tournaments in more than 20 different countries, this Thursday marks the start of the final stage of the Race to Dubai. At the Dubai World Championship (25-28 November 2010), which rounds off The European Tour season, US PGA Champion and BMW Golfsport Ambassador Martin Kaymer will attempt to defend his lead in the annual ranking and bring the 2010 season to a glorious conclusion as Europe’s number one golfer.

On Monday Kaymer was already getting himself into gear for this upcoming challenge. During an off-road training session with BMW driver trainer Marc Nemeth, he steered the powerful BMW X6 xDrive50i across the desert sand in true style, surfing like a pro over the dunes in the 407 hp vehicle.

“It was a superb experience,” commented Kaymer with visible enthusiasm. “It’s amazing what the BMW X6 can do – normally you only tend to see these all-wheel-drive models in road traffic. But here, in the deep desert sand, it showed off its true qualities.” Driving instructor Nemeth was duly impressed with the performance of the world’s current no. 3 seed: “Martin has a very good feel for the car and knows exactly when to hit the gas.”

The 25-year-old from Mettmann in North Rhine-Westphalia will have to drum up this kind of talent again, along with his nerves of steel, on the course at the Jumeirah Golf Estates in order to parry the threat from Graeme McDowell, who is in peak playing form. The US Open Champion from Northern Ireland could still take a win to topple Kaymer from the lead in the Race to Dubai and be crowned Europe’s best golfer of the year, earning him prize money of 1.5 million dollars.

Against a spectacular desert backdrop, Kaymer followed up Monday’s off-road experience by practising a few careful strokes in Dubai’s biggest sand bunker. “My game feels good; I will be going into the tournament full of confidence,” he said.

Coming top of the year’s European ranking would be the crowning glory of an outstanding season for Kaymer. As well as being the first German golfing pro since Bernhard Langer to win a major (the US PGA Championship), the world’s third-best player celebrated a further three tournament victories, winning the Abu Dhabi Championship, the KLM Open and the Dunhill Links Championship, as well as playing for the successful European Ryder Cup team.

This year BMW is represented as Official Car for the first time at the Dubai World Championship. At the Jumeirah Golf Estates, Europe’s leading 60 professionals will be playing for prize money of 7.5 million dollars plus a Bonus Pool of another 7.5 million dollars for the top 15 finishers in the final ranking of the Race to Dubai. 

Munich. Next year, BMW is offering amateur sportsmen and women from throughout Europe a unique stage to demonstrate their versatility, skill and ability to work in a team. Sixty teams, each consisting of three members, will go head to head in six challenging disciplines at the BMW X3 Games. Sailing, mountain biking, skiing, golf, running and driving are in store for the international competitors when they test themselves from 27th April to 1st May 2011 in Geneva (CH). The teams must also successfully complete a creative task. The winning team can look forward to a sporting all-rounder: each team member will receive a new BMW X3.

“The BMW X3 Games are aimed at amateur sportsmen and women from all age groups,” says Ralf Hussmann, Head of BMW Sports Marketing and Brand Cooperation. “Each competitor can bring their own personal strengths to this multi-sport event, thus working with team-mates to achieve the big goal. However, the BMW X3 Games are about more than three spectacular main prizes. Teams from 18 European countries will assemble in Geneva, where they will not only compete against each other in an exclusive environment, but will also line up together. We can look forward to thrilling duels in a unique atmosphere.”

From 15th November 2010 to 28th February 2011, anyone interested can either register individually online at www.bmw.com/X3games or as a complete team of three. The teams to appear at the BMW X3 Games in Geneva will then be drawn and receive a notification concerning their participation by mid-March 2010. Each entrant will compete in two of the six sports. All three team members will work together to master a creative task. A points system will be in place to determine the overall score.

The BMW X3 Games are scheduled to start with a sailing regatta on Lake Geneva. The contestants will sail on Beneteaus First Class 7.5 yachts. They will then move on to a challenging course in nearby “Juragebirge”, which they will tackle on BMW Cross Country Mountain Bikes. The ski competition will be held in Chamonix Mont-Blanc, close to the Swiss metropolis, before the participants must demonstrate their ability behind the wheel of the BMW X3. A round of golf in Gross Stableford format and a 14-kilometre run round off the sporting challenges at the BMW X3 Games.

The overall winners can look forward to an impressive vehicle. The new BMW X3 celebrated its world debut at the “Mondial de l'Automobile Paris 2010” in October. Featuring greater sportiness, driving comfort, interior space and versatility, the X3 is significantly increasing the lead in the segment founded by its predecessor.

First to the destination, last to refuel: When it comes to efficiency, the two engine variants available as the car is launched are setting new benchmarks. The Auto Start Stop function is combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox for the first time. No other manufacturer in the world can boast such a comprehensive range of measures for reducing consumption and CO² emissions as BMW. High-performance engines and a sporty driving style need not conflict with the environment and resources. BMW X3 xDrive20d with automatic gearbox: combined consumption 5.6 litres/100 km, combined CO² 47 g/km. BMW X3 xDrive35i with automatic gearbox: combined consumption 8.8 litres/100 km, combined CO² 204 g/km. The new BMW X3 is also the first BMW X model, which has an EPS Electric Power Steering and optional Performance Control as standard. The choice of driver assistance systems offered by BMW ConnectedDrive is unique in the segment. The new BMW X3 can be equipped, inter alia, with Adaptive Cornering Headlights, Head-up Display and reversing camera including Top View.

If you have any questions regarding this press release, please contact:

BMW Group Sport Communications
Nicole Stempinsky
Phone: +49 89 382 51584
Email: Nicole.Stempinsky@bmw.de
www.press.bmwgroup-sport.com

Business and Finance Communications, Marketing
Martina Daschinger
Phone: +49 89 382-14908
Email: Martina.Daschinger@bmw.de
https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

The BMW Group.
The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 24 production facilities in 13 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. 

The BMW Group achieved a global sales volume of approximately 1.29 million automobiles and over 87,000 motorcycles for the 2009 financial year. Revenues totalled euro 50.68 billion. At 31 December 2009, the company employed a global workforce of approximately 96,000 associates.

The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last six years.