Jorge Lorenzo last lifted the MotoGP world championship trophy in 2015, a season that stands out as one of the most dramatic in the modern era of the sport. While it marked the Spaniard’s third and final premier-class title, the campaign is remembered for far more than just the statistics.
In the years that followed, Lorenzo was unable to consistently match the form that brought him championship success. Even so, his 2016 season with Yamaha suggested that another title was within reach, with many believing he had a genuine chance to defend his crown before circumstances and results ultimately fell short.
Lorenzo competed during one of MotoGP’s most competitive periods, sharing the grid with legends such as Valentino Rossi, Marc Marquez, and Casey Stoner. Securing three MotoGP titles against that level of opposition underlined his exceptional speed, precision, and commitment at the highest level of racing.
His move to Ducati in 2017 proved to be a difficult turning point. Although he achieved moments of success, the transition did not provide the momentum needed for a strong late-career resurgence, and it marked the beginning of a challenging final phase in his MotoGP journey.
Source: MC News
The intensity of Lorenzo’s career was perhaps best reflected in his rivalry with Rossi. Their relationship had already been strained years earlier, notably after Rossi’s controversial celebrations following their battle at the 2009 Spanish Grand Prix, staged in front of Lorenzo’s home fans. That tension resurfaced during the 2015 title fight, adding another layer of intrigue to an already dramatic season.
After claiming his final championship, Lorenzo did not shy away from controversy, stating that Rossi was clearly too slow to deserve the title. The remark summed up the fierce competitiveness that defined both riders and further cemented 2015 as one of MotoGP’s most talked-about seasons.
Ultimately, while Lorenzo’s later years did not mirror the success of his peak, his achievements, particularly the 2015 title, remain a lasting testament to his place among MotoGP’s greats.
