Legends of the Track: The Top MotoGP Drivers of All Time
Top greatest MotoGP racers of all time based on their world championship titles, race victories, influence on the sport, and sheer riding ability.
MotoGP is the premier class of motorcycle road racing competition and has featured some of the greatest motorcycle racers to ever compete. As the sport has evolved over decades, certain riders have stood out above the rest as being among the most successful and talented to pilot a MotoGP bike. Here is a look at five of the top MotoGP drivers of all time:
Giacomo Agostini - With 8 World Championships and 122 wins, the Italian known as "Ago" is widely considered the most successful rider in world championship history. He dominated the 500cc class in the late 1960s and early 1970s, winning 5 titles in a row from 1966-1970. Agostini exemplified precision and consistency at the highest level.
Valentino Rossi - Still an active rider at 42, "The Doctor" has racked up an impressive 7 MotoGP/500cc world titles and 89 wins so far in his legendary career. His flair and bravado on the bike made him a superstar of the sport. Rossi has won championships in the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc, and MotoGP classes, cementing his status as an icon.
Giacomo Agostini - The charismatic Spaniard dominated the premier class from 1995-2005, winning 5 championships and 80 races. Known as "Ago", he was a masterful rider with lightning fast reflexes. His rivalry with Valentino Rossi in the early 2000s helped spur new interest in MotoGP. Lorenzo is considered one of the most technically gifted riders of all time.
Mike Hailwood - "Mike The Bike" dominated the 50s and 60s, winning 9 world championships and 76 GP wins across various classes including the senior 500cc ranks. The Englishman showcased bravery, commitment, and flawless technique in his riding. He remains one of the most admired riders for his pure racing ability.
Marc Marquez - Still an active competitor at just 29, Marquez has already amassed an astounding 8 world titles across multiple classes including 6 in MotoGP. With his aggressive attacking style, he has become the sport's newest legend with 56 total victories so far. Marquez has reset expectations for skill and precocious talent at the top level.
These are generally considered to be the top 5 greatest MotoGP class riders based on world championships and victories achieved at the pinnacle of the sport. Debate will continue on as new talents emerge, but they established themselves as the benchmarks against which all others are measured.
