Miguel Oliveira Set for WorldSBK Return at Misano After Injury Layoff

The Portuguese rider is expected to rejoin BMW Motorrad squad this weekend as Danilo Petrucci continues recovery.

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Miguel Oliveira is set to make his return to the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) this weekend at Misano after recovering from injuries sustained earlier this season.

The Portuguese rider is expected to be back aboard the #88 BMW M 1000 RR for the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team at Round 7 of the 2026 WorldSBK season, subject to final medical clearance at the circuit.

Oliveira has been sidelined since suffering a fractured shoulder blade during an incident in the Superpole Race at Hungary’s Balaton Park Circuit in May. The accident, for which he was deemed blameless, forced him to miss the subsequent rounds at Most and MotorLand Aragón.

Following the injury, the former MotoGP race winner underwent an intensive rehabilitation programme in his native Portugal and has been working towards a return at Misano.

Recovery on Track

The 31-year-old recently completed a track day aboard a production motorcycle as part of his recovery assessment and is confident about returning to racing action.

“I’m looking forward to rejoining the team and getting back on my BMW M 1000 RR,” said Oliveira.

“Returning at Misano has been the target throughout my recovery, and I’m pleased to be in a position to make that happen. Earlier this week, I also rode a production bike during a track day to assess my condition and gain some valuable time on track.”

Oliveira also thanked his family, medical staff, team members and fans for their support throughout his recovery process.

While eager to return, the Portuguese rider acknowledged that he is still working towards full fitness.

“My priority this weekend is to rebuild my rhythm, regain confidence on the bike and continue progressing session by session. The rest will come with time and hard work.”

Petrucci Still Recovering

While Oliveira is preparing for a comeback, teammate Danilo Petrucci will remain on the sidelines for another round.

The Italian suffered a fractured coccyx during the Most round and, despite making strong progress in his recovery, BMW and Petrucci have agreed not to rush his return.

Petrucci will still be present at Misano to support the team from the paddock.

Van der Mark Steps In Again

With Petrucci unavailable, BMW test rider Michael van der Mark will continue his substitute role after stepping in during the previous two rounds.

The Dutch rider, who has extensive experience with the BMW squad, recently arrives at Misano in high spirits after helping BMW Motorrad secure victory at the prestigious 8 Hours of Spa Motos endurance race.

As a result, van der Mark will now replace Petrucci while Oliveira returns to his usual side of the garage.

Positive News for BMW

BMW Motorrad Motorsport Head Sven Blusch welcomed Oliveira’s return after what has been a challenging period for the team.

“We are very pleased that Miguel’s recovery has progressed so well that we can now plan for his comeback at Misano,” said Blusch.

“After some difficult weeks, this is a step back towards normality for us. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to Miguel’s recovery following his injury.”

Regarding Petrucci’s absence, Blusch added that the decision was made to prioritise the Italian rider’s long-term health.

With Oliveira expected back on track and van der Mark continuing his substitute duties, BMW heads into Misano hoping to regain momentum as the 2026 WorldSBK season enters its second half.

Round 7 of the WorldSBK Championship at Misano takes place from June 12 to 14.