Yamaha pulls out of Qatar MotoGP over ‘situation in the Middle East’

MotoGP notes that Yamaha’s absence from the November 6‑8 Lusail event carries sporting ramifications.

Published On 1 Nov 20261 Nov 2026

Yamaha announced its withdrawal from the upcoming Qatar MotoGP race, citing concerns over the situation in the Middle East.

The Japanese manufacturer made the announcement shortly after the Malaysian MotoGP round on Sunday.

Yamaha stated that it has not identified sufficient justification to alter its existing company‑wide travel restrictions.

The MotoGP grid includes Yamaha riders such as France’s Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 world champion, and Spain’s Alex Rins.

The MotoGP Group expressed disappointment over the decision, noting that Yamaha’s non‑participation also carries sporting implications.

The Group added that, although the team is bound by a broader corporate policy limiting travel to the Middle East, it does not view the decision as reflecting the assurances given to all championship stakeholders.

MotoGP said its discussions with Qatar organisers and safety advisers had identified no reasons to alter the event schedule, which is set for November 6‑8 at the Lusail International Circuit near Doha.

The Group communicated its position and the latest information to all manufacturers and teams today, welcoming the confirmation from the rest of the grid that they will compete in Qatar and thanking them for their commitment.

The statements were issued shortly after the Malaysian MotoGP at Sepang, leaving only three races remaining in the season, beginning in Qatar.

Ducati’s seven‑time world champion Marc Marquez won the Sepang race and may secure the championship in Doha.

Al Jazeera has sought a comment from the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation.

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