MotoGP riders push for guarantees before Qatar Grand Prix next week
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 1, 2026, 7:05 AM
Last updated Nov 1, 2026
MotoGP riders are intensifying their pressure on the championship organizers ahead of next week's Qatar Grand Prix, originally set for April but postponed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. A letter signed by three-quarters of the riders demands that the MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group assumes responsibility for insurance and evacuation plans for the race in Losail. Despite assurances from the Qatari government, the riders are seeking further guarantees before committing to travel. The riders have set a deadline for MGPSEG to respond by 4 PM Sunday. Recent meetings indicate some teams are hesitant, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding the event.
- •Tensions rise as Qatar Grand Prix approaches on November 8.
- •Riders demand MGPSEG provide guarantees for insurance and safety.
- •Majority of riders have signed a letter outlining conditions for travel.
- •Yamaha has yet to confirm its participation, citing safety policies.
- •Deadline for MGPSEG's response set for 4 PM Sunday.
- 7:05 AMMotorsport.com — MotoGP riders step up pressure in final bid to avoid Qatar Grand Prix
- 7:05 AMYahoo Sports — MotoGP riders step up pressure in final bid to avoid Qatar Grand Prix
"Tensions between the majority of MotoGP riders and the championship organisers have reached new heights this weekend in the Sepang paddock, with the trip to Qatar fast approaching. Next Sunday's race was originally scheduled for mid-April but was postponed following the outbreak of war between the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran on the other. Although hostilities have eased ...Keep reading
"Motorsport.com understands that the majority of MotoGP riders have sent a letter to the championship promoter, reiterating their demand that the series itself take responsibility for providing the insurance cover and guarantees required for them to travel to Qatar
Sources
External links- Motorsport.comNov 1, 2026, 7:05 AMMotoGP riders step up pressure in final bid to avoid Qatar Grand Prix
Tensions between the majority of MotoGP riders and the championship organisers have reached new heights this weekend in the Sepang paddock, with the trip to Qatar fast approaching. Next Sunday's race was originally scheduled for mid-April but was postponed following the outbreak of war between the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran on the other. Although hostilities have eased ...Keep reading
- Yahoo SportsNov 1, 2026, 7:05 AMMotoGP riders step up pressure in final bid to avoid Qatar Grand Prix
Motorsport.com understands that the majority of MotoGP riders have sent a letter to the championship promoter, reiterating their demand that the series itself take responsibility for providing the insurance cover and guarantees required for them to travel to Qatar
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