John Surtees (pictured in 1958) retained his 350cc and 500cc World Championship title, his final titles in motorcycle racing before moving to Formula One.In his final season, Carlo Ubbiali successfully defended his 125cc and 250cc World Championship title.
Points were awarded to the top six finishers in each race. Only the four best races were counted in all five classes: the Sidecars, 125cc, 250cc, 350cc and 500cc championships.