Yamaha has announced its withdrawal from next weekend's MotoGP race in Qatar, citing safety concerns in the Middle East region. The Japanese manufacturer confirmed the decision on Sunday, November 1, 2026, ahead of the scheduled Grand Prix event at the Lusail International Circuit.
The move comes amid heightened regional tensions, though Yamaha did not specify the exact nature of the safety concerns prompting the withdrawal. The Qatar round is a regular fixture on the MotoGP calendar, typically held under floodlights at the desert circuit.
Yamaha's absence marks a significant development for the championship, as the factory team fields competitive entries in the premier class. The organization has not indicated whether the withdrawal extends to future races in the region or applies solely to the upcoming Qatar event.
