Yamaha pulls out of Qatar MotoGP over 'Middle East situation

Yamaha has decided not to participate in next weekend's Qatar MotoGP, citing concerns over the volatile situation in the Middle East. The Japanese manufacturer stated that it has not identified any grounds to change its existing company-wide travel restrictions. Among the riders competing on the Yamaha bikes is France's Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 world champion.

MotoGP Group expressed disappointment with Yamaha's decision, emphasizing that it does not align with the assurances provided to all championship stakeholders. MotoGP acknowledged that they had communicated with Qatari organizers and safety advisers, but found no reasons to alter their plans for the event. The organization welcomed the confirmation from the remaining grid that they would compete in Qatar and thanked them for their commitment.

The news followed the Malaysian MotoGP in Sepang, where reigning seven-time world champion Marc Marquez secured a victory, potentially clinching the title in Doha. The season has three races left, with the Qatar event being the final one. Sources reported that there were discussions behind the scenes in Sepang regarding whether teams would attend the Qatar race.