Raul Fernandez will attempt to return to MotoGP action at the Qatar round after missing the previous two race weekends. The Trackhouse rider was injured in a crash during the Indonesian MotoGP Sprint in October, yet raced the following day and finished second. He then did not compete in Australia — where the race was cancelled because of rain — or Malaysia.

Fernandez went back to Spain and followed an intensive medical and physiotherapy programme in preparation for a possible return. He has spoken warmly about Qatar, especially its night-time setting and the circuit’s fast sections. At the same time, he admits that the venue has not produced a strong MotoGP result for him so far and does not believe he has scored points there. Fernandez specifically highlighted the third and fourth sectors, where the faster corners suit him best.

A Qatar grid affected by absences

Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio wants Fernandez back in good shape so the team can again have both riders available to fight for results in the closing rounds of the season. Trackhouse arrives after a productive Malaysian weekend for Ai Ogura, who took fourth place in both the Sprint and the main race.

Yamaha will not take part in Qatar because of its corporate travel policy for the Middle East region. Alex Marquez has undergone shoulder surgery after Malaysia, while Fermin Aldeguer remains out with a hand injury. Joan Mir is doubtful after his vision problems returned at Sepang and forced him to retire. Marc Marquez is expected to race and has said he will travel as late as possible.