Spielberg, Austria – In a spectacular unveiling at the Red Bull Ring, the high-octane world of MotoGP met the cutting-edge innovation of BMW M GmbH as the all-new BMW M5 was revealed as the coveted prize for the 2024 BMW M Award. This annual accolade, reserved for the fastest qualifier in MotoGP, will see the winner take home the groundbreaking BMW M5, a machine that merges legacy performance with futuristic technology.
The unveiling, which took place on Thursday evening, was a highlight of the Motorcycle Grand Prix of Austria. Dan Rossomondo, Chief Commercial Officer of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, and Axel Mittler, Marketing Manager at BMW M GmbH, proudly showcased the latest evolution of BMW’s iconic M5—a car that has redefined high-performance sedans for over 40 years. This seventh-generation model ushers in a new era with an electrified powertrain, delivering a staggering 727 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque, thanks to the M Hybrid system.
The new BMW M5 isn’t just about raw power; it’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The hybrid system, paired with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in just 3.5 seconds, ensuring it lives up to the “most powerful letter in the world.”
This marks the second consecutive year that the BMW M Award winner’s car features an electrified drive system, reflecting BMW M’s forward-thinking approach. Last year’s BMW XM Label Red was the first to pave this path, and the 2024 BMW M5 continues to embody this blend of performance and pioneering technology.
Rossomondo highlighted the significance of this prize, stating, “The BMW M5 this year is not just a spectacular car—it encapsulates everything MotoGP stands for: performance, passion, and innovation. It’s a prize every rider aspires to win.”
Mittler echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing the M5’s status as the flagship of BMW’s lineup. “To present this car before its official market launch is a testament to our commitment to MotoGP and our confidence in the M5’s groundbreaking capabilities,” he said.
Adding to the excitement, MotoGP riders Aleix Espargaró and Raúl Fernández had the chance to experience the new M5 firsthand, taking laps around the Red Bull Ring and getting an exclusive feel for the car’s electrifying performance.
Alongside the M5, fans at the event also got a glimpse of another marvel—the new BMW M5 Touring, fresh from its world premiere in Pebble Beach, California. Both vehicles showcase BMW’s relentless pursuit of innovation, setting the stage for an exhilarating race to claim the 2024 BMW M Award.
Since its inception in 2003, the BMW M Award has honored the MotoGP rider with the best qualifying performance over the season, with points awarded at each Grand Prix. The record for most BMW M Awards is held by Marc Márquez, with seven consecutive wins, followed by recent champion Francesco Bagnaia. This year’s competition promises to be as fierce as ever, with the all-new BMW M5 serving as the ultimate prize.
