Full Breakdown
Qatar Pushes Ahead with F1 and MotoGP Races Despite Regional Conflict
9/1/2026, 10:13:18 PM
Core Event: November Grand Prix and MotoGP Plans
The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) says the Formula One Grand Prix scheduled for November 29 at the Lusail circuit near Doha and the MotoGP round set for November 8 will proceed if conditions allow. Formula One announced it will issue a final decision in mid-September, while the World Endurance Championship cancelled its October 24 round in Qatar.
Background & Context
The racing calendar is being shaped by the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, which began in February and has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the broader instability, QMMF President Abdul Rahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai emphasizes that Qatar’s airport operations and daily life have returned to normal, positioning the country as a viable host for the high-profile events that generate tens of millions of dollars in hosting fees for Formula One.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that the federation cannot halt its plans and will assess the situation step-by-step. Formula One’s own communication indicates a pending mid-September decision, noting that the season could conclude in Europe if the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races cannot be held.
Data & Statistics
- November 29 – Planned Formula One race at Lusail circuit (decision pending).
- November 8 – Scheduled MotoGP race at the same venue.
- October 24 – World Endurance Championship round cancelled.
- Hosting fees for Middle-East F1 events amount to tens of millions of dollars, underscoring their financial importance to the sport.
Verbatim Quotes
“Qatar has been safe for months now. Our airport is 100 percent operational, including transit flights between Asia and Europe. If you visit Qatar, you will see we are back to normal life, so we’re really looking forward to hosting races again soon,” — Al Mannai
