Yamaha pulls out of Qatar MotoGP over ‘Middle East situation’

Yamaha has announced it will not take part in the upcoming Qatar MotoGP, citing concerns over the situation in the Middle East. The Japanese manufacturer has not found sufficient reasons to deviate from its current travel restrictions for the company. Among the riders competing on Yamaha motorcycles in the prestigious MotoGP series is France's Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 world champion.

The MotoGP Group expressed disappointment with Yamaha's decision, stating that it carries significant sporting implications. They acknowledged that the team's participation is influenced by a broader corporate policy restricting travel to the Middle East, but they believe Yamaha's move does not align with the assurances given to all championship stakeholders.

MotoGP officials have not identified any reasons to alter their plans for the event, based on talks with Qatari organizers and safety advisers. The Malaysian MotoGP in Sepang took place earlier this week, and there are only three races remaining in the season, which starts in Qatar.