The Qatar Grand Prix is scheduled for 6–8 November, but MotoGP riders want concrete safety guarantees before travelling to the country. Their demands include an evacuation plan for everyone in the paddock and hotel-cost cover if an airspace closure prevents them from leaving Doha.

MotoGP moved the event from its original April slot after the conflict between the United States and Iran created uncertainty across the region. Tensions have since risen further, with Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia and threats of renewed US strikes on Iran. The championship continues to insist that the race will take place, while Lusail has said that preparations are in their final stages.

Riders discussed the situation in a private meeting at the Australian Grand Prix. About two-thirds of those present voted against travelling to the region, and their concerns were then taken to MotoGP Group chief Carlos Ezpeleta. VR46 boss Uccio Salucci said that some guarantees had been provided, while stressing that each rider would make an individual decision about participation. He also said that his team’s riders would be there, without confirming that every demand had been covered.

There is little room in the calendar for a late change. After Phillip Island, the paddock is due to travel to Malaysia and then Qatar as part of a triple-header. A further escalation that closed Gulf airspace would disrupt travel and freight planning, while the championship is expected to finish with the Portugal and Valencia rounds at the end of November.