Marquez on brink of eighth title as MotoGP heads to Qatar under shadow of war
DUCATI’s Marc Marquez could clinch a record-equalling eighth MotoGP title in Qatar this weekend, but the reigning champion would rather not be there amid paddock unease over racing so close to a regional conflict.
Ducati's Marc Marquez could secure a record-breaking eighth MotoGP title at the Qatar Grand Prix, scheduled for November 6-8. The champion expressed reluctance to race in the conflict-ridden region, despite MotoGP officials confirming the event's safety. Seven-time champion Marquez stated he would leave Qatar as soon as possible, while Aprilia boss Massimo Rivola declared his team would race regardless of safety concerns.
Yamaha withdrew from the event due to company-wide travel restrictions, potentially facing sporting consequences. Jack Miller, representing Pramac Racing, shared similar concerns about participating in the race. The current standings saw Marquez leading with 399 points, 44 ahead of Jorge Martin from Aprilia and 67 ahead of Marco Bezzecchi.
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