Marc Marquez will start 2026 with a chance to win the title and several historic records within reach – which records in MotoGP history are now under threat?
The 2026 MotoGP season is just around the corner, and it could be a historic one.
Once again, Marc Marquez is the center of attention. After his comeback, the Spanish superstar is the top favorite in the title race and has his sights set on several significant records in addition to the world championship. This overview shows which records Marquez can break or further extend in 2026 and why this season could go down in the history books.
Thanks to his successes to date, Marquez is already one of the most influential figures in MotoGP. With the switch to a competitive Ducati motorcycle—first in the Gresini team, then in the factory team—his starting position has improved once again.
If the season goes smoothly, not only is another world championship title realistic, but also a significant improvement in his position in the all-time motorcycle racing rankings. An additional title would further enhance his career record and increase the gap between him and many champions of the younger generation.
The next world championship title and the all-time rankings
A look at the historical title rankings is particularly exciting. Giacomo Agostini continues to lead the list of riders with the most titles across all classes, followed by Angel Nieto. Several multiple world champions are grouped directly behind them.
With his ninth world championship title last season, Marc Marquez drew level with his archrival Valentino Rossi, among others. Every further world championship success for the Spaniard would further shift the balance in this ranking and intensify the debate about who is one of the greatest riders of all time.
Most world championship titles
1. Giacomo Agostini (15)
2. Angel Nieto (13)
3. Marc Marquez (9)
3. Valentino Rossi (9)
3. Mike Hailwood (9)
3. Carlo Ubbiali (9)
The title rankings in the sport’s highest category are particularly prestigious. In the combined statistics for 500cc and MotoGP titles, Marquez is tied with Valentino Rossi, both with seven titles each. Agostini is ahead with eight.
Another world championship success in MotoGP would further increase the pressure on this historic record. For many fans, this list is considered the toughest benchmark because it only takes into account the elite class – where competition, technical level, and public expectations are at their highest. Most MotoGP titles: 1. Giacomo Agostini (8) 2. Marc Marquez (7)
2. Valentino Rossi (7)
3. Mick Doohan (5)
The hunt for the most Grand Prix victories in all classes
The hunt for records is not over yet when it comes to Grand Prix victories across all classes.
Marquez is already one of the most successful riders in World Championship history. However, if he has a particularly dominant phase in 2026, he could further close the gap to the current leaders in the all-time wins list.
The increased number of races per season opens up more mathematical opportunities, but at the same time, the field is more competitive today than in previous decades. This would make another big leap in victories all the more statistically significant. However, Marquez would have to win 16 Grands Prix to catch up with Rossi. No one has ever achieved that in a single season. Agostini’s record is unattainable this season.
Most Grand Prix victories
1. Giacomo Agostini (122)
2. Valentino Rossi (115)
3. Marc Marquez (99)
Victories in MotoGP: Historic ranking shakes up
Even more meaningful for many observers are the pure statistics of victories in the premier class. Here, Marquez is already at the top of the table. A strong season with many victories could bring him closer to the existing record. However, as with the cross-class victories, Marquez would need 16 first places in Sunday races to tie with leader Rossi.
Most MotoGP victories
1. Valentino Rossi (89)
2. Marc Marquez (73)
3. Giacomo Agostini (68)
Attack on the season record for most wins
Another focus is on the season record for most race wins in a year. Marquez himself holds one of the most impressive records of modern times in this regard.
If the setup, fitness, and race progress all come together, he can attack this record again. He already came close to his own record in 2025, but was then thwarted prematurely by injury. Such a series would not only mean new records, but also shape the title decision early on.
Most wins in a season
1. Marc Marquez (13 – 2014 season)
2. Marc Marquez (12 – 2019 season)
2. Mick Doohan (12 – 1997 season)
3. Valentino Rossi (11 – 2001, 2002, 2005 seasons)