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MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix cancellation uncertainty

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-19 18:52 UTC → 2026-10-10 06:07 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The 2026 MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix faces potential cancellation due to geopolitical instability in the Middle East involving the United States, Iran, and Israel. Initially, Liberty Media postponed a final decision on the November race until September to assess security conditions. By late August, reports suggested the race was likely to be cancelled entirely rather than replaced, which would have reduced the season from 22 races to 21. During this period, rumors of a replacement event in Malaysia were dismissed, and MotoGP deputy CEO Carlos Ezpeleta noted that future scheduling remained dependent on the evolving regional situation. ~~However, by~~ By mid-September, the outlook shifted. MotoGP promoter Carmelo Ezpeleta confirmed that the Grand Prix is still scheduled to take place at the Lusail Circuit on November 8. Ezpeleta told DAZN, “Currently the idea is to go. We are in routine communication with Qatar, the authorities there say they are ready to host, and if there is no radical change, we will go.” As of October, MotoGP officials maintain that the event remains on the calendar, though they emphasize that the safety of personnel and supporters is the “absolute priority.” Rider opinions on the potential risks remain divided: Fabio Quartararo suggested that if Formula 1 proceeds, MotoGP should as well, while Francesco Bagnaia noted that all safety aspects must be evaluated before a final decision. Other riders, including Alex Marquez, have expressed uncertainty regarding the race’s feasibility. While MotoGP intends to proceed, regional instability has already forced other motorsport series to adjust; Formula 1 has canceled plans for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, while the WEC and WRC have also faced cancellations or changes. ~~MotoGP continues to monitor developments closely as it prepares to release its 2027 calendar.~~

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