Qatar’s Ministry of Sport has sent a formal letter to the MotoGP Group promising comprehensive security measures and a tailored evacuation plan for all participants in the Qatar Grand Prix. The paddock remains uncertain about the race, despite official assurances that it will go ahead as scheduled.

The commitment comes after intense pressure from riders and teams, who are demanding concrete guarantees amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

Riders take their concerns to MotoGP Group

The controversy erupted at Phillip Island, where riders, led by Marc Márquez, met Carlos Ezpeleta, MotoGP Group’s Vice CEO, to voice their concerns. Supported by legal counsel, they presented a detailed document requesting explicit assurances to protect their safety during the Qatar event.

In response, Carlos Ezpeleta immediately flew to Doha to speak directly with the promoter and government officials, exploring all possible solutions to secure the race’s viability. He remains in Qatar and is scheduled to return tomorrow.

The riders have kept their united front, holding another critical meeting with teams yesterday. The consensus is clear: competitors will not oppose racing outright but insist on solid guarantees first.

Teams align with these demands, stressing the need for protection not only for riders but also for all personnel involved. This unified stance has compelled the MotoGP Group to intensify efforts to meet these conditions, creating a rare atmosphere of collaboration between riders and teams.

Preparations at Losail and unease in the paddock

Preparations at the Losail circuit are well underway, with tyres already delivered and infrastructure ready to host the event. Only the final contingent of staff remains absent.

Unease nevertheless persists within the paddock. Many personnel prefer not to travel directly from Sepang to Doha but instead plan to return home, making the journey to Losail at the last possible moment.

The volatile Middle Eastern conflict continues to cast a shadow, with Qatar acting as a mediator in ongoing negotiations with Iran. A new draft agreement has been presented, with one week remaining to resolve outstanding issues.

Further talks planned in Sepang

Today, riders will hold a further meeting in Sepang to discuss the situation directly with Carmelo Ezpeleta, while awaiting Carlos’s return. The overall mood is tense, reflecting the unpredictable geopolitical climate and its impact on the MotoGP calendar.

The Qatar Grand Prix hangs in the balance, but for now, the green light remains firmly in place.