MotoGP says Qatar GP will proceed, warns teams of penalties

MotoGP chief Carmelo Ezpeleta told riders and team representatives that the Qatar Grand Prix is expected to proceed, while warning that teams could face contractual penalties if they fail to attend. The race is scheduled as the 20th round of the 2026 season at Lusail next weekend, after being postponed from its April slot. Ezpeleta delivered the message during discussions in Sepang ahead of the Malaysian Grand Prix. Accounts of the meeting said he made clear the event would go ahead even if individual riders chose not to travel, and that teams would be responsible for penalties linked to unmet contractual obligations. The reports did not include contract terms or a formal penalty notice. Riders have been seeking written safety assurances from Qatar in case regional hostilities escalate while paddock personnel are in the country. Qatar has submitted an emergency-response document, according to accounts of the discussions, but riders want more specific guarantees. MotoGP’s commercial rights holder has said the assurances are a matter for the Qatari government. Enea Bastianini said riders needed a clearer picture of the situation and concrete information by the end of the Sepang...