Alex Marquez moves to end MotoGP Qatar GP speculation: 'The race is confirmed'

The MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (MGPSEG) has pledged its full commitment to hosting the Qatar Grand Prix next weekend, despite the sport's riders voicing their reservations over safety concerns. The conflict between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran has created an unstable climate in the Gulf region, though it is less severe than at the war's onset.

More than 75% of the grid have opposed traveling to the region, where tensions could still escalate. During a meeting at Sepang circuit offices in Malaysia, MGPSEG CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta reiterated his stance that the event would proceed, emphasizing that individual riders' contracts bind them to their teams, which would bear any penalties.

The riders requested written safety guarantees from MGPSEG, but the promoter denies such requests fall within its scope and instead falls under the responsibility of the Qatari government. Qatar has submitted a commitment to respond to emergencies, though riders seek more specific assurances. Some teams, like Yamaha and Honda, plan to send minimal staff, while broadcasters holding broadcasting rights have declined to send personnel to the Lusail circuit.