The never-ending debate over who reigns supreme in MotoGP history—Valentino Rossi or Marc Marquez—has taken a dramatic new turn.

For years, fans have passionately argued about which of these fierce rivals deserves the title of the greatest rider of all time. With Rossi boasting nine world championships, he still holds the edge over Marquez—but for how much longer?

Marquez, now the face of Ducati’s factory team, has started the 2025 season in unstoppable form, winning all four races across two rounds and solidifying himself as the clear title favorite.

MotoGP pundits are taking notice. Reporting live from Argentina, TNT Sports’ Suzi Perry proclaimed: “You are seeing a genius on a motorcycle here. He rides differently from anybody else—perhaps better than anyone ever has—to extract 100% from his machine. You have to appreciate what we’re witnessing.”

Neil Hodgson doubled down: “People say ‘the competition isn’t as strong as in the past,’ but let’s break it down. This grid has 22 riders—over half of them are world champions. Six of them have won multiple world titles.

“This field is stacked with the best of the best. And yet, Marc still stands out.

“For me, he’s the greatest rider I’ve ever seen. Ever! And that includes Valentino Rossi.”

Perry, however, pushed back: “It depends on how you define the GOAT. If we’re talking purely about racing ability, I probably agree. But Rossi brought so much more to MotoGP.”

Michael Laverty weighed in: “Marc is the fastest, most calculated, and aggressive racer. He does everything right. But then you consider the global impact of Rossi…”

Perry nodded: “He put MotoGP on the map when it wasn’t.”

Yet Laverty had the final word: “You can’t argue with Marquez’s stats. With everything he’s endured—the injuries, the struggles, the comeback—he’s now at arguably his peak.”

At 32, Marquez has survived career-threatening injuries, escaped a doomed Honda contract, and reignited his winning ways on a year-old Ducati in 2024. Now, with a full-factory-spec machine in 2025, he’s back to total dominance.

Rossi fans, however, will point to his longevity, mainstream appeal, and unmatched charisma. The Italian remains MotoGP’s most recognizable icon, and his bitter duels with Marquez are the stuff of legend.

But as Marquez inches closer to Rossi’s records—nine world titles and 115 career wins—the ultimate GOAT debate is approaching a decisive moment.

Even Uccio Salucci, VR46 team boss and Rossi’s lifelong confidant, has admitted that Marquez is likely to surpass the Doctor’s legendary win tally.

Will this be the year Marquez finally settles the debate? Or does Rossi’s impact on MotoGP make him the undisputed GOAT, regardless of the stats? One thing is certain—the battle isn’t over just yet.