Lusail Says Qatar F1 and MotoGP Preparations Near Completion

Lusail International Circuit says preparations for Qatar’s Formula 1 and MotoGP races in November are nearing completion, as both championships continue to plan for the events amid regional conflict and safety concerns. Circuit chief executive Abdulaziz Ali Al-Muhannadi said the venue’s teams were focused on getting ready to welcome fans. He said the circuit looked forward to hosting the events, which are about three weeks apart. His statement describes preparations, but does not resolve whether conditions will allow the races to proceed. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said on October 20 that Formula 1’s races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi were expected to take place. He also said he could not predict whether the situation might worsen. Formula 1 has considered a possible contingency in Imola, but it has not been officially approved as a replacement. MotoGP is also planning to hold its Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail. Deputy CEO Carlos Ezpeleta said the championship was monitoring developments and that the safety and wellbeing of staff and fans remained its priority. The teams’ association, IRTA, reportedly informed teams that the race was intended to proceed as scheduled. That...