MotoGP: compromise sought with riders over Qatar GP
The newsroomUpdated on October 28, 20263 minMotoGP riders want written safety guarantees for the Qatar Grand Prix on 8 November. Evacuation plan, insurance, repatriation: where do talks stand?
Key point
MotoGP riders want written safety guarantees before travelling to Qatar on 8 November; an agreement is expected within 48 hours, once Carlos Ezpeleta returns from Doha.
MotoGP is looking for a compromise with its riders ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, postponed to 8 November. On Wednesday at Sepang, Malaysia, the riders met in the circuit offices, with many team managers present, to discuss the safety guarantees they are demanding. The meeting was constructive and cordial, but no definitive agreement was reached.
What the riders want
During the previous weekend at Phillip Island, the riders decided to ask for written guarantees on their safety and that of the whole paddock. The document under discussion covers:
- a specific evacuation plan;
- cover for costs if Qatari airspace is closed;
- repatriation in an extreme scenario.
The Qatar race was originally scheduled for mid-April. It was pushed back to 8 November because of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The sticking point
The riders want MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (MGPSEG), the commercial rights holder of the championship, to take responsibility for these guarantees. They feel their obligations are growing while their exposure to risk increases. The promoter considers that unworkable and believes the championship's leading figures should show more commitment.
Teams are caught in the middle, as they are contractually bound to both their riders and the promoter. Relations between MGPSEG and the riders are described as strained.
A legal question too
Qatar, one of the championship's longest-standing and most important partners, insists the event can go ahead without compromising the safety of visitors. Meanwhile, the governments of most countries represented in the paddock advise against travel to Qatar unless strictly necessary.
Such advice is not a formal ban, however, so it does not count as force majeure that would let MotoGP end its contract with Qatar without financial consequences.
What next?
Carlos Ezpeleta, deputy managing director of MGPSEG, was in Doha on Wednesday for a conference. All sides are waiting for his return: an agreement could come as early as Thursday, and a resolution is expected within 48 hours. We will keep following the story.
Frequently asked questions
When is the MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix?
The Qatar Grand Prix, originally planned for mid-April, was postponed to 8 November because of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
What are the riders asking for?
Written guarantees for their safety and that of the whole paddock, including an evacuation plan, cover for costs if Qatari airspace closes, and repatriation in an extreme scenario.
Can MotoGP cancel Qatar without consequences?
Not automatically: a travel advisory is not a formal ban, so it is not force majeure allowing MotoGP to end the contract without financial consequences.
Sources
- Autosport — MotoGP seeks compromise with riders over Qatar Grand Prix
- Motorsport.com — Le MotoGP cherche un compromis avec les pilotes pour le GP du Qatar
Written by the Karrazmotorsport newsroom, proofread before publication. For settings, always refer to your vehicle's manual. Our charter.
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