MotoGP postpones the Qatar Grand Prix, the calendar is rearranged

After WEC and Formula 1Another world championship is disrupting its calendar. Due to the current geopolitical situation in the Middle East, the Qatar Grand Prix, initially scheduled for April, has been postponed to November 8, 2026. This decision was made after consultation between the championship promoter, the International Motorcycling Federation, and the Qatari local authorities.

After considering several possible scenarios, the organizers opted for a new date at the end of the season to minimize the impact on the rest of the calendar. This change, however, necessitates a slight adjustment to the final two rounds of the championship. The Portuguese Grand Prix at Portimão is now scheduled for November 22, while the season finale in Valencia will take place on November 29. The other races on the 2026 calendar remain unchanged.

« This decision was made in close coordination with our partners in Qatar and in the paddock. Our absolute priority is the safety and well-being of everyone involved. MotoGPso that each Grand Prix takes place in the best possible conditions “,” explains Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP. The Spanish executive also emphasizes the importance of having informed fans as early as possible, specifying that ticket holders will have the option to transfer their tickets to the next event.

Ezpeleta also praised the cooperation of the Portuguese and Spanish organizers in allowing this adjustment to the schedule. I would like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility. This has allowed us to ensure a smooth readjustment of the calendar while preserving the quality of the championship. »

In Qatar, local authorities also expressed their support for this decision. The Qatar Motorcycling Federation and the Lusail International Circuit respect and support the decision to postpone the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6, 7 and 8, 2026., says Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, president of the Qatari federation and the Lusail circuit. We thank our fans, our teams, and our partners for their understanding and support. We look forward to welcoming them back to the circuit. »

The International Motorcycling Federation also shares this position. Its president, Jorge Viegas, reiterates that safety must remain the priority in the current context. The FIM fully supports this decision. Given the current geopolitical context, the safety of our riders, teams, officials and fans must remain the absolute priority. »

Despite this postponement, the organizers want to reassure everyone: the 2026 season should take place as normal, with a final still planned on the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia at the end of November.

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