MotoGP is still working towards holding the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail on 6-8 November. Teams have been informed through a recent IRTA communication that the championship’s plan remains in place, while preparations continue amid the wider conflict in the Middle East and recent attacks in neighbouring Saudi Arabia.

The race was originally scheduled for April. It was subsequently moved to November after Qatar was drawn into the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with the Portuguese and Valencia rounds also rearranged to accommodate the revised calendar. Qatar is now scheduled to be the third of the five remaining MotoGP rounds.

Safety remains the condition for travelling

Carlos Ezpeleta, MotoGP’s deputy CEO, said the championship is planning to travel to Qatar but will continue assessing the situation. He placed the safety and wellbeing of staff and fans above the sporting plan, making clear that the November date is dependent on conditions remaining acceptable as the event approaches.

Travel to Doha is also subject to a changing regional security picture. An update issued by the US Embassy in Qatar on 18 October described the environment as complex and warned of possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and wider disruption. Hamad International Airport remains open, while Qatar Airways suspended flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam on 12 October because of the situation.

UK government travel advice, last updated in mid-August, likewise describes the regional situation as unpredictable and warns of possible attacks and unforeseen escalation. It advises travellers to follow local-authority instructions, monitor airport and airspace updates, keep departure plans under review and remain away from security or military facilities. The guidance also says that anyone instructed to shelter should stay indoors or use the nearest suitable secure building.

The sporting consequences of another change would be significant. Aprilia’s Jorge Martin and Ducati’s Marc Marquez are separated by just two points, with Qatar positioned early in the closing sequence of five races. A cancellation or further calendar adjustment would therefore affect both the title fight and the travel planning required by teams, riders, staff and fans.