BMW Motorrad and the Pope's unique charity campaign

BMW Motorrad has launched an amazing charity campaign that blends spirituality and machinery.

Blessing and history

On 3 September 2025, Pope Leo XIV blessed and signed a specially designed BMW R 18 Transcontinental motorcycle in the Vatican. This moment became a unique event in automobile history, aimed at raising support for charity.

Sacred journey

The idea was initiated by Thomas Drexler, founder of JESUS-BIKER®. He dreamed of creating a special motorcycle named after the Pope for charity. BMW Motorrad Deutschland donated the R 18 Transcontinental, which was decorated by the Witzel dealership with special modifications, including pearl-white painting and the Vatican's royal insignia.

Meeting with the Pope

BMW Motorrad CEO Markus Flasch and Germany Division Head Michael Sommer presented the bike to the Pope at the Vatican. The Pope signed the bike and also sat on it for a while. The bikers present welcomed this moment with enthusiasm. It was also called the moment of "the first Pope to ride a motorcycle".

Technical wonder

The BMW R 18 Transcontinental has a 1,802cc air/oil cooled engine, which gives 91 horsepower and 158 Nm of torque. This touring cruiser is equipped with features like ABS, cruise control, navigation and heated leather seats. The Pope Edition has a special look and chrome detailing.

Donation purpose

This signed motorcycle will be auctioned through Sotheby’s in October 2025. All proceeds will be used to help children in Madagascar through Missio Austria. Especially for children who work in mica mines, so that they can get education and support.

Before the auction, the motorcycle will be on display at BMW Welt in Munich from 15 September to 7 October 2025.

Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, said –

"What seemed like a crazy idea at first has now become a great charity campaign. I am delighted that we are able to help the children of Madagascar on behalf of BMW Motorrad."

Conclusion

This collaboration between BMW Motorrad and the Vatican shows that luxury motorcycles can also be useful for humanitarian purposes. It has become not just a machine, but a means of helping those in need.

Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, press images, and information used in this article are obtained from BMW's official pressroom.