Marc Marquez is, undoubtedly, the favourite for the crown once again in 2018. With 46 points of advantage over…you guessed it, the number 46 of Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) in second, the Repsol Honda rider is in the driving seat by the mid-way point.

Rossi, Germany MotoGP Race 2018

With six world titles, Marquez overtook the five of Mick Doohan last season and equaled Jim Redman and Geoff Duke – but there are still seven legends ahead of the number 93 and very much in his crosshairs. Phil Read and John Surtees have seven titles each, before the list moves up to the nine crowns won by Carlos Ubbiali, Mike Hailwood and…you guessed it, Valentino Rossi. After them, only two names remain: Angel Nieto, who has 12+1 Championships due to superstition, and Giacomo Agostini, on 15.

To put that in perspective, it’s worth considering Marquez’ age. In only a quarter of a century on earth and less than that spent racing, there is only one man whose numbers compare to that of the number 93: Valentino Rossi. If the second half of the season goes to plan, Marquez can edge ahead – Rossi’s seventh crown came at the age of 26, in September 2005.

For the ‘Doctor’ and his fans, however, there’s still something to smile about. His numbers over their first almost-100 starts in MotoGP are better as Rossi won well over 50% of them, and Marquez’ win at the Sachsenring just edged him over 40%.

By MotoGP