Yamaha to skip Qatar Grand Prix over security concerns

Yamaha will not participate in the Qatar Grand Prix of MotoGP, after concerns over the country's security situation. In a statement, MotoGP said it was disappointed by Yamaha's decision, but noted that the company decided to not change its "company-wide travel restrictions". "MotoGP is disappointed by Yamaha's decision not to participate in the Qatar Grand Prix. While we recognise the team is subject to a broader corporate policy restricting travel to the Middle East, we do not believe this decision reflects the extensive assurances provided to all championship stakeholders," said MotoGP in a statement. "Following consultation with the State of Qatar, Lusail International Circuit, independent safety advisers and MotoGP's own ongoing risk assessment process, MotoGP has not received any information that would warrant a change to the current plans for the event." Andrea Dovizioso, Yamaha MotoGP rider, on track before final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of the United States at the Circuit of the Americas on 24 October 2026 in Austin, Texas (AFP)