Yamaha has announced it will not participate in next weekend's MotoGP race in Qatar, citing safety concerns in the Middle East region. The Japanese manufacturer made the decision public on Sunday, November 1, 2026, according to an Associated Press report.
The withdrawal affects the upcoming Grand Prix round scheduled at the Lusail International Circuit. Yamaha did not specify the exact nature of the safety concerns but referenced the broader situation in the Middle East as the determining factor.
This marks a significant development in the 2026 MotoGP championship calendar, as Yamaha fields factory-supported entries in the premier class. The team's absence will alter the competitive landscape for the Qatar round.
MotoGP organizers have not yet issued a formal statement regarding Yamaha's withdrawal or any potential replacement arrangements for the event.
