MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Former rider and MotoGP commentator Stefan Bradl believes Marc Marquez remains the benchmark heading into the 2026 season, with the reigning champion poised to pursue major historical milestones.
Bradl knows Marquez closely from their time working together at Honda, where Bradl served as a test rider while Marquez led the HRC project on track. Combined with his current role as a broadcaster, Bradl maintains a detailed perspective on the competitive landscape as the new campaign begins.
Reflecting on Marquez’s crashes during the Thailand round, Bradl suggested the incidents were characteristic of the Spaniard’s riding philosophy rather than a sign of instability.
“Marc crashed three times in Thailand, but that’s typical of him.
“When Marc finds the limit, he knows how to manage it for the rest of the weekend. He accepts those ‘small’ crashes.”
According to Bradl, such falls — particularly when they occur without injury — form part of Marquez’s method of identifying the performance threshold of both machine and rider. In his view, this approach has been central to Marquez’s ability to adapt rapidly, including during his transition to Ducati machinery.
The 2026 season presents significant statistical opportunities. Marquez could claim his 100th grand prix victory while also targeting an eighth premier-class title, which would mark his 10th world championship overall.
“Everything is possible, and I think that’s exciting for him.
“Actually, those records are not his main priority. But of course he wants to be the undisputed king of MotoGP and surpass Valentino Rossi. That’s his motivation.”
Bradl’s comments underline that Marquez’s ambitions extend beyond defending his current crown. Achieving those milestones would further redefine his standing within the sport’s modern era and intensify comparisons with the most decorated figures in MotoGP history.
Drawing an analogy with tennis, Bradl described the mentality required to continue pursuing titles at the highest level.
“It’s like a tennis player who already has 20 Grand Slam titles. The 21st is still attractive.
“Marc knows how difficult it is because he has also experienced setbacks. The fact that he and Alex are both very successful as brothers gives him additional strength.”
The comparison highlights the resilience required after multiple injury setbacks in recent years. Entering 2026 as reigning champion, Marquez carries heightened expectations, yet Bradl suggests that his internal drive to break records and solidify his legacy remains the dominant force.
With a new season underway, the opening rounds will begin to indicate whether Marquez can realistically convert ambition into historic achievement once again in MotoGP’s increasingly competitive landscape.
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