For the first time in the history of the motorcycle world championship, which began in 1949, the premier-class grid will feature a total of 15 full-time riders who are champions in one of the world categories - adding up to an astonishing 32 titles between them.
After reaching a peak of 14 champions on the grid in the 2022 season, the figure dropped to 13 over the past three years. However, the arrival of new riders for 2026 will raise the number to a historic high of 15 champions on the starting grid of the opening grand prix of the season, which will take place on 1 March in Buriram, Thailand.
