MotoGP teams are said to have received dedicated shelter locations and emergency procedures ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix. The plan concerns the paddock and sets out how people should respond if a national emergency alert is issued during the race weekend.

The guidance is contained in a document titled “Internal Shelter Locations”, with slides identifying areas of the paddock that can provide protection. Its seven steps call for an immediate move to cover, avoiding lifts and heading to each team’s agreed “solid building” at the circuit. Team members are also instructed not to touch or photograph any debris.

On the sporting side, Yamaha is missing the Grand Prix because of existing company-wide travel restrictions affecting the Middle East. That reduces the MotoGP grid from 22 to 18 riders. The event is also Marc Márquez’s first opportunity to secure the 2026 title. Márquez has said he would like to be “in another place”, a remark that reflects the unusual backdrop surrounding the round.