Doha, March 15 (NationPress) In a significant update, the MotoGP has revealed that the Qatar Grand Prix, which was initially scheduled for April, will now be conducted from November 6-8. This change is attributed to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The decision follows thorough discussions among the championship organizers, the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the event promoter, and local officials in Qatar. Authorities indicated that this adjustment was essential for the safety and welfare of everyone involved in the event, while also ensuring that the race meets the highest operational standards.

With the revised date now established, the race is set to occur at the Lusail International Circuit later this year. Organizers conducted comprehensive reviews of the calendar to minimize disruptions to the overall championship schedule.

In addition to this change, the Portuguese Grand Prix at Algarve International Circuit in Portimao has been moved to November 22, while the season finale at the Valencia Grand Prix is now slated for November 29. Apart from these adjustments, the remaining rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship will continue as initially planned.

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, highlighted that this decision was reached after careful consideration with all parties involved.

“This decision was made with utmost care and in complete coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our top priority is always the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in MotoGP, alongside ensuring that each Grand Prix is delivered to the highest standard possible. We also appreciate the need for clarity for our fans, and ticket holders will have the option to transfer their tickets to the rescheduled event.

“I want to express my gratitude to our partners in Portimao and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in facilitating a smooth transition to the updated schedule. We are confident that the revised timetable will uphold the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing,” he stated.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and the Lusail International Circuit, also voiced his support for the new schedule, stating, “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and endorse the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams, and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Lusail International Circuit.”

This change ensures that the championship schedule remains intact while emphasizing safety and maintaining the quality of this prestigious global racing event.