Like many others, our sport is governed by numbers. Some statistics are essential for understanding Grand Prix racing, while others are purely anecdotal but still entertaining. Today, in this article, I'm going to present you with a list of surprising stats that you can easily bring up during a meal or drinks with fellow enthusiasts. Did you know?
The Portuguese Grand Prix did not start at the Estoril circuit in 2000. In 1987, an edition was held in Jarama, Spain (near Madrid). The lack of preparation by the Portuguese is at the origin of this anomaly, unique in history.
Race cancellations are quite rare. In 1980, the paddock was surprised by snow at the Salzburgringin Austria, resulting in the outright cancellation of the test. The British Grand Prix also suffered a similar fate in 2018..
The Dutch Grand Prix has had more editions (76(only at Assen) than the French Grand Prix organized on seven different circuits (68) since 1949.
In 1986, a race reserved exclusively for the lower categories was organised on the Hockenheim circuit, as part of the Baden-Württemberg Grand Prix. Gerhard Waibel won the 80cc race and the late Fausto Gresini the 125cc.
More races in the premier class separate Valentino Rossi (372 departures) of his runner-up Aleix Espargaro (260 departures) than Espargaro from tenth in the standings (Colin Edwards, 196 departures).
Andrea Dovizioso has never missed a race in his 21-year career.
Climbing onto the third step of the podium after falling is not common. Scott Redding did it, however, during the 2015 San Marino Grand Prix.Who was second? I'll let you tell me in the comments.
Kenny Roberts was a genius who revolutionized racing and established Yamaha as the dominant force in the Suzuki era. He holds several incredible records, including three consecutive world championship titles from 1978 to 1980. but the crown has always been decided in the final round of the seasons in question.
Valentino Rossi has won at least one race in 18 different countries.
Joan Mir only won the title with one victory in 2020.In 2024, Pecco Bagnaia finished second despite having won 11 times on Sundays. Mir, a true statistical anomaly, only managed two pole positions in his career. all in Moto3 (Austria 2016 and Malaysia 2017), at the time these lines are being written.
Will this remain a unique case in history? Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Kenny Roberts climbed onto the podium in his first 11 career races, including six in 500cc.
Despite the evolution of equipment, the record for the fastest race dates back to the 1977 Belgian Grand Prix, on the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. where the race had been completed at an average speed of over 217 km/h by Barry Sheene.
Two races were organized on French territory during the 1991 season. The French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard, as well as the " Le Mans Grand Prix Speed » on the Bugatti circuit, replacing the Brazilian round. Kevin Schwantz was the winner and Wayne Rainey was crowned champion for the second consecutive time.
That's a bit strange. but no one has won a championship on three different brands since 1949However, six riders have done it with two manufacturers, including Marc Marquez since 2025.
Andrea Dovizioso is often praised for finishing as runner-up in the world championship three times between 2017 and 2019, but Valentino Rossi did the same from 2014 to 2016 against a grid that was at least as competitive. No one has been runner-up more often than "The Doctor" in his career (five times).
Contrary to what one might think, Misano is not the only circuit to have been raced in both directions: This is also the case for Kyalami and Suzuka.
Were you aware of these unlikely little statistics to nibble on? Tell me in the comments!
I personally think Valentino Rossi's 2016 season was quite underrated. Photo: Michelin Motorsport
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
