MotoGP forced into Qatar schedule change as rider standoff continues

MotoGP has been forced to change its Thursday schedule ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix, with riders expected to arrive at the last-minute. 

This comes amid the ongoing standoff between MotoGP and its riders, many of whom are not in favour of racing at the Lusail International Circuit.

Last week it was reported that 19 of the 22 riders signed a letter during the Malaysian Grand Prix about their opposition of the race taking place.

This letter is believed to have been sent to MotoGP officials, however, it has not stopped the championship’s decision makers from carrying on with plans to stage the Qatar GP.

The three riders that are in favour of racing in Qatar include Marco Bezzecchi, Ai Ogura, and Johann Zarco. 

But with some riders not expected in Qatar until the very last moment, according to a report from GPOne, MotoGP’s Thursday press conference has now been pushed back by four hours. The press conference has been delayed until 8pm local time (5pm UK time), having originally been scheduled for 4pm.

Riders have voiced their concerns with racing in Qatar to varying degrees, with Pramac Yamaha rider Jack Miller taking one of the strongest stances against racing this weekend.

Miller’s opposition is unsurprising after Yamaha confirmed its withdrawal from the Qatar Grand Prix following last weekend’s race in Sepang.

The ongoing war in the Middle East between the United States and Israel, against Iran, is what has caused safety concerns for many of the riders involved.

It has also led to other organisations rescheduling events away from the conflict, most notably the Dakar Rally, which has been moved from Saudi Arabia to parts of Spain, Morocco and Portugal, with the latter set to host the prologue.  

This is due to take place in Loule, Faro, on January 9, with the first stage the following day. The rally will then move through Spain and cross into Morocco, where the route will take competitors along the North African country’s west coast.

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