This ranking highlights the most outstanding motorcycle riders in the MotoGP World Championship, focusing on their achievements, championship wins, and lasting impact on the sport. It compares legendary riders based on their premier-class victories, world titles, and career longevity. The list includes figures such as Giacomo Agostini, Valentino Rossi, and Marc Márquez, who have shaped the history of motorcycling with their dominance and charisma.
Young six-time World Champion
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Marc Marquez is a six-time MotoGP World Champion known for his aggressive riding style and ability to win titles in his early career. His achievements include being the youngest rider to win the premier class championship as a rookie.
Holds the record for the most podiums in MotoGP™ history (235)
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Valentino Rossi is widely regarded as one of the best MotoGP riders due to his seven premier class world titles and 89 premier class victories. His enduring popularity and ability to compete at a high level over two decades have cemented his status as a legend in the sport.
5 world championships
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Three-time Moto GP world champion and now a commentator and contributor. Influencer and content creator in the world of motorcycling.
Illustrious career
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He is a retired Spanish motorcycle racer. He holds three World Motorcycle Championship titles.
Naturally skilled racer
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is a former Australian motorcycle racer. He competed in the MotoGP World Championship from 2006 to 2012, where he won two world titles, with the Ducati team in 2007 and with the Repsol Honda Team in 2011. He also finished runner-up in 2008 (also in 2005 in the 250cc class), third in 2012, and fourth in 2009 and 2010.
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Two world championships
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Jorge Martín has demonstrated exceptional skill and speed, securing victories and high rankings in recent MotoGP seasons, making him a strong contender for the title of one of the best Moto GP riders in history. His aggressive riding style and consistent performance showcase his potential for greatness in the sport.
2022 and 2023 MotoGP World Riders' Champion
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Francesco Bagnaia has risen to prominence in MotoGP, winning the championship in 2023 and demonstrating exceptional skill and consistency, making him a notable contender for the best Moto GP rider in history. His strategic racing and ability to perform under pressure highlight his potential for continued success.
Won 15 World Championship titles
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Giacomo Agostini is the most successful rider in Grand Prix history with 15 titles and 122 race wins, making him a strong contender for the best Moto GP rider of all time. In the top-flight series, Agostini holds the title record.
Won 13 World Championships
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Ángel Nieto was one of the most accomplished motorcycle racers in history, securing 13 World Championships. His strategic brilliance and ability to pace races contributed significantly to his success and cemented his place as a legend.
Claimed 54 500cc victories
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Mick Doohan dominated MotoGP in the 1990s, securing five consecutive 500cc World Championships. His relentless pace, aggressive riding style, and ability to overcome a severe leg injury to continue his dominance make him a strong contender for the title of best MotoGP rider in history.
Consistent multi World Champion
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Eddie Lawson is a four-time FIM 500cc road racing world champion and the first MotoGP competitor to win back-to-back 500cc world championships. Known as "Steady Eddie" for his consistency and skill, he secured four titles in 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1989, marking a golden era for American riders.
Won 76 Grands Prix
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Mike Hailwood, nicknamed "The Bike", was a nine-time Grand Prix motorcycle World Champion, securing four titles in the premier 500cc class with MV Agusta. His versatility and success across different classes and events, including 14 Isle of Man TT victories, solidify his place among the greatest Moto GP riders in history.