Francesco Bagnaia is part of a growing group of 16 riders who have won at least one Grand Prix more recently than Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo.
What happened?
On June 19, 2022, Quartararo won for the third time in the defence of his 2021 world title, leading all 30 laps of the race.
Why it matters for Francesco Bagnaia
Bagnaia came back from the dead to win the 2022 title, then went back-to-back in '23 before losing out to Jorge Martin a year later.
What comes next?
This weekend's German Grand Prix is different, though, with the 2027 rider market merry-go-round moving at a dizzying pace.
Francesco Bagnaia's performance has been strong, with Ducati winning four titles in a row, including Marquez's seventh premier-class title last year.
The Sachsenring this weekend will be a time for Quartararo to look back and wistfully remember what was, while peer into the future.
Quartararo's long-anticipated move to Honda for the first year of MotoGP's 850cc regulation revolution is set to be revealed imminently.
Yamaha's freefall has faceplanted, with the Japanese manufacturer cast ever-further adrift in a class of one at the back of the pack.
Francesco Bagnaia and other top riders will be looking to capitalize on Yamaha's struggles.
The 2026 season has seen a shift in power, with Aprilia emerging as a contender last year, then becoming MotoGP's factory to beat in 2026.
Bagnaia's Ducati team has been dominant, but the competition is fierce, with riders like Marc Marquez and Jorge Martin pushing for the top spot.
The German Grand Prix will be a crucial test for all riders, including Francesco Bagnaia.
With the 2027 rider market in full swing, the future of MotoGP is looking bright, and Francesco Bagnaia is sure to be a key player.