The Japanese company confirmed that its riders, along with those from Pramac, its satellite team, will not participate in the race in Lusail
Despite the doubts raised by the geopolitical situation in the region, MotoGP Group maintains its intention to hold the race. The organization responded just minutes after Yamaha's announcement and expressed regret over its decision, although it acknowledged that the manufacturer is subject to a corporate policy that limits travel to the Middle East.
The uncertainty surrounding the geopolitical situation in the Middle East continues to impact the international sports calendar. This time, the conflict has reached MotoGP, where Yamaha confirmed it will not participate in the Qatar Grand Prix, scheduled for next weekend, from November 6 to 8, at the Lusail International Circuit.
The decision by the Japanese manufacturer also affects Pramac, its satellite team, meaning four bikes will be absent from the twentieth race of the season. The official team will miss the French Fabio Quartararo, world champion in 2021, and the Spanish Álex Rins, while the satellite team will not compete with the Australian Jack Miller and the Spanish Augusto Fernández.
Yamaha justified its stance based on the travel restrictions it has in place for its employees due to the risks arising from the war in the region. "Following its latest assessment of the situation in the Middle East, Yamaha has not found sufficient reasons to modify the travel restrictions currently in place across the company", it explained in a statement.
Additionally, it clarified that the decision is based on its own evaluation and not on measures taken by the championship organizers. "This decision reflects Yamaha's assessment of the currently available information and is independent of the measures implemented by MotoGP Group and the event organizer", it added.
Finally, despite the absence in Qatar, the Japanese brand reaffirmed its commitment to the World Championship and announced that it will return to action at the Portuguese Grand Prix, scheduled for December 20 to 22.
Regarding the event, the entity stated: "After consulting with the State of Qatar, the Lusail International Circuit, independent security advisors, and as part of MotoGP's ongoing risk assessment process, we have not received any information that justifies modifying the current plans for the event".
It explained that Qatari authorities provided guarantees regarding the safety of paddock personnel and the rest of the manufacturers and teams confirmed their intention to travel to compete. In this regard, MotoGP thanked those who maintained their participation.
Finally, the organization warned that Yamaha's decision will have consequences. "In addition to the contractual implications of Yamaha's decision regarding its agreements with MotoGP and IRTA, its absence also has sporting implications, and any consequences in that area will be managed by the FIM in accordance with the championship regulations", it noted.
It is worth remembering that the Qatar Grand Prix was originally scheduled to take place between April 10 and 12, but was rescheduled for November due to the security situation in the Middle East. Now, despite the withdrawal of Yamaha and Pramac, the competition remains officially on the calendar.
