Six-time MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez has unveiled his personal list of the greatest MotoGP riders ever. Surprisingly, Marquez excluded himself, showing his humility despite being one of the sport’s most dominant figures. His selections feature legends from various eras, each representing unique qualities that have shaped the sport.
Marc Marquez’s Top 5 MotoGP Legends
Marquez’s choices reflect his deep respect for the history of MotoGP and its most influential riders:
Giacomo Agostini: The Italian icon holds an unmatched record of 15 world titles, including 8 in the premier class. Agostini’s era of dominance spanned from 1966 to 1975, where he showcased unparalleled skill on MV Agusta and Yamaha motorcycles. He remains a revered figure in MotoGP’s history books.
Angel Nieto: A legend in the lighter classes, Nieto amassed 13 world titles, making him the most decorated Spanish rider in history. His achievements in 50cc and 125cc classes paved the way for Spain’s rich legacy in motorcycle racing.
Mick Doohan: Known for his resilience and dominance, the Australian rider won five consecutive premier-class titles during the 1990s. Doohan’s ability to recover from life-threatening injuries and maintain his dominance, primarily on Honda machines, solidified his place as a MotoGP legend.
Jorge Lorenzo: Marquez’s former teammate and rival, Lorenzo earned 5 world championships, including 3 in MotoGP. His intense battles with Valentino Rossi during their Yamaha years and later clashes with Marquez showcased his grit and precision on the track.
Valentino Rossi: With 9 world titles (7 in the premier class), Rossi remains one of the most iconic figures in MotoGP. Known for his charisma and legendary rivalries, Rossi’s clashes with Marquez, particularly in the controversial 2015 season, are etched in MotoGP history.
The Humility of Marc Marquez
Marquez explained his decision to exclude himself from the list, saying, “I will never put myself on a list like this.” While many fans and analysts consider him one of the greatest, Marquez prefers to celebrate the accomplishments of others. His acknowledgment of MotoGP’s history reflects his respect for the sport and its pioneers.
Marquez’s Next Chapter: The Ducati Era
As Marquez transitions to Ducati for the 2024 season, his career takes an exciting new turn. With 6 premier-class titles, Marquez is just two championships away from equaling Valentino Rossi’s record of 8 MotoGP titles. His move sets the stage for thrilling rivalries, especially with Ducati’s current star, Francesco Bagnaia, who is being groomed for long-term success.
This fresh start offers Marquez a chance to further solidify his legacy. If he can harness Ducati’s powerful RC16 and achieve success, he may very well challenge the rankings of his own top five in the years to come.
A Tribute to MotoGP Greatness
Marc Marquez’s top five choices honor the rich history of MotoGP, celebrating the riders who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From Agostini’s dominance to Rossi’s flair and Lorenzo’s precision, each rider represents a pivotal era. While Marquez himself refrains from self-praise, his career continues to build a legacy that will inspire future generations of riders.
