Yamaha has withdrawn its factory team and satellite partner Pramac from next week’s Qatar Grand Prix, citing the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East. The 20th round of the season is scheduled to take place at the Losail International Circuit from 6 to 8 November.
The Japanese manufacturer said its internal contracts allow it to restrict employees from travelling to regions affected by war. After reviewing the situation, Yamaha concluded that there were not sufficient grounds to lift its existing company-wide travel restrictions.
“Yamaha has informed MotoGP Group about its decision not to participate in the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix,” the company said. It added that the decision was based on the information available to it and was separate from the safety measures introduced by MotoGP and the event organiser.
The withdrawal follows a failed attempt by riders and teams to cancel the Qatar race. MotoGP deputy chief executive Carlos Ezpeleta travelled to the country on Thursday to discuss safety arrangements with local authorities, who provided assurances regarding paddock personnel.
MotoGP said it had also consulted the State of Qatar, the Lusail International Circuit, independent safety advisers and its own risk-assessment team. According to the championship, those consultations had not produced information that justified changing the event plans. MotoGP added that all other teams had confirmed their participation.
The decision has intensified the dispute between MotoGP and the teams over their contractual obligations to contest every scheduled round. Yamaha could face contractual and sporting consequences, with the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme responsible for determining any sporting penalties under the championship regulations.
MotoGP said it was disappointed by Yamaha’s decision, while recognising that the manufacturer was following a wider corporate policy on travel to the Middle East. Yamaha stated that it remained committed to MotoGP and expected to return at the Portuguese Grand Prix.
Sources: Autosport.