Yamaha Withdraws from Qatar MotoGP Race

Yamaha has withdrawn from the Qatar MotoGP race scheduled for 6-8 November because of the Middle East conflict. This follows 19 of 22 riders signing a letter on safety concerns amid Israel air strikes on Iran in February. Yamaha says it has not found sufficient grounds to alter its company-wide Middle East travel restrictions. The Japanese government has advised citizens against non-essential travel to the region. MotoGP expressed disappointment, noting that the race can proceed safely with assurances from Qatar and independent safety advisers. Qatar guarantees teams would not be stranded if the conflict escalates. Honda and satellite team Pramac will still compete in Qatar, while Yamaha and other teams stay away. MotoGP will still run the race, but Yamaha's absence will shift the championship dynamics. The decision underscores how geopolitical tensions can ripple into global sporting events.