BMW Motorrad has made the call: the next GS Trophy is heading to Romania. It’s the second time the off-road adventure lands in Europe, promising a dramatic shift from the sandy steppes of previous editions to the dense forests of the Carpathian Mountains.

The country’s dramatic topography has long attracted off-road enthusiasts. For the GS Trophy, it presents the ideal combination of logistical challenge and scenic backdrop where technical forest trails, river crossings, and steep elevation changes will add some extra spice to the competition. 

But the adventure goes beyond the dirt. Romania offers a cultural landscape as rich as its natural one. Riders will traverse a land steeped in folklore and history, passing medieval castles, fortified churches, and villages that seem untouched by time. Among the most iconic landmarks is Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula legend, adding a gothic flair to the adventure.

At the center of it all will be the new BMW R 12 G/S, the official competition bike for 2026. Inspired by the iconic R 80 G/S, the R 12 G/S is built for dual-terrain performance, combining a high-torque boxer engine with shaft drive durability. BMW calls it a “classic enduro for pure off-road fun,” and the GS Trophy will be its proving ground.

But before the adventure begins, competitors must earn their spot. Riders qualify by proving themselves in one of the 8 national rounds held in Australia, China, Germany, India, Japan, South Korea, and Ukraine. Expect to be tested in a variety of GPS navigation exercises, off-road special stages and technical tests. 

Notably the US is not included on the list of qualifying countries announced by BMW. The manufacturer does state though, that those who are not residents of the countries listed in the qualifying rounds can register for the International Qualifier in October 2025. Only 15 teams—nine men’s and six women’s—will earn a spot in Romania.

The qualifying rounds for the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2026 are confirmed for the following countries and regions:
• Australia
• China
• Germany
• India
• Japan
• South Korea
• Ukraine
• International qualifying

About the BMW International GS Trophy

For those unfamiliar with the International GS Trophy, it is BMW Motorrad’s global adventure competition for amateur riders. Held every two years, it’s not a race in the traditional sense—it’s a multi-day test of skill, endurance, and teamwork across demanding terrain. Not all of these involve just motorcycling: skills and teamwork are essential, too. Since competitors are together for a lot of the time, also spending the night in bivouacs, this is an adventure that also promotes a sense of togetherness. People, cultures and motorcyclists from all over the world come together, and it is not uncommon for friendships to be made for life.

Based on the experience of past GS Trophy competitions, the most successful teams are ultimately those that demonstrate solid preparation, excellent teamwork and riding ability, while at the same time having a lot of fun and experiencing wonderful international camaraderie.

BMW Motorrad has confirmed that the next GS Trophy will take place in late summer 2026, though exact dates have yet to be announced. For updates and details, visit bmwmotorrad.com.

Photos by BMW Motorrad