From an idea to solidarity in action
The initiative for this unusual project began in Sennfeld, Franconia. Local BMW motorcycle dealer Witzel and Thomas Draxler, founder of JESUS-BIKER, jointly developed the concept for a symbolic fundraising campaign. Their goal: to create a unique motorcycle that would be auctioned off to support social projects in Madagascar.
BMW Motorrad Germany provided an R 18 Transcontinental for this project, which was extensively customized. The most striking visual change is the special pearlescent white paint job, complemented by the Vatican coat of arms. This refinement transformed the touring motorcycle into an absolutely unique piece.
Spiritual start with the “Peace Ride”
The starting signal was given on August 31, 2025, with a multi-day motorcycle tour entitled “Peace Ride.” The route took participants from Sennfeld via Schaafheim, Altötting, and Verona to Rome. The tour was attended by representatives of BMW Motorrad, the dealer Witzel, and the JESUS-BIKER, most of whom rode BMW R 18 models provided by BMW Motorrad. Several church services accompanied the spiritual character of this journey.
Blessing in the Vatican by Pope Leo XIV.
On September 3, 2025, the initiative reached its symbolic climax: the refined BMW R 18 Transcontinental was presented to the Pontiff during a solemn ceremony at the Vatican. After a general audience in St. Peter’s Square, Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, and Michael Sommer, Head of BMW Motorrad Germany, personally presented the motorcycle. Pope Leo XIV signed the motorcycle’s fuel tank with his own hand and gave it his blessing.
Public exhibition and auction success
Before the auction, the unique motorcycle was exhibited at BMW Welt in Munich from September 15 to October 7, 2025. This was followed by the auction, organized by Missio Austria and conducted by Sotheby’s. The hammer fell on October 18, 2025, at Motorworld Munich.
With a final proceeds of €130,000 (approx. $137,500), the result exceeded many expectations. The entire sum will go to children’s aid projects in Madagascar.
Comments on the charity campaign
Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome:
The fantastic result of the auction of our R 18 Transcontinental signed by Pope Leo XIV is a wonderful final highlight of this charity campaign. Like everyone involved, I am delighted that the auction proceeds of €130,000 will enable us to make a significant contribution to supporting aid projects for children in Madagascar in collaboration with Missio Austria. And, of course, I wish the new owner lots of fun with this unique BMW R 18 Transcontinental.”
Conclusion
What began as a seemingly unusual idea developed into a successful charitable project with strong symbolic power. The combination of motorcycle culture, spirituality, and social commitment culminated in a spectacular auction – with a result that will benefit children in Madagascar in the long term.
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