Yamaha pulls out of Qatar MotoGP over Middle East situation

Yamaha has decided not to take part in the upcoming Qatar MotoGP, citing the volatile situation in the Middle East as their primary reason. The Japanese manufacturer has not found any grounds to disregard their existing company-wide travel restrictions. Among the riders on the MotoGP grid is France's Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 world champion, who competes on a Yamaha bike.

The MotoGP Group expressed disappointment over Yamaha's withdrawal, stating that it also carries sporting implications. While acknowledging the company's adherence to a broader travel policy, MotoGP believes the decision does not align with the assurances provided to all championship stakeholders. MotoGP had discussions with Qatari organizers and safety advisers, but did not uncover any reasons to alter their plans for the event.

They communicated this stance, along with the latest information, to all manufacturers and teams, welcoming the confirmation that the rest of the grid will compete in Qatar. The remaining three races in the season start in Qatar, where reigning seven-time world champion Marc Marquez from Ducati could potentially clinch the title.

Following the Malaysian MotoGP, there were discussions among teams about whether to participate in Qatar, though several riders declined to comment on the situation.