MotoGP News: Qatar race postponed, calendar reschuffled

In a significant adjustment to the 2026 MotoGP season, the Qatar Grand Prix has been postponed from its original April slot to November, prompting a reshuffle of the calendar’s closing rounds. This decision, announced on March 15, 2026, stems from ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East, prioritizing the safety of riders, teams, and fans.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

The Lusail International Circuit event, initially set for April 10-12, will now take place on November 6-8. This move was made in close coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the MotoGP promoter, and Qatari authorities. The postponement follows heightened concerns after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, which escalated regional conflicts and raised security risks for international events.

As a result of the shift, Qatar will form the tail end of a demanding triple-header alongside the Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix. The Portuguese Grand Prix at Portimão has been rescheduled to November 22, while the season finale in Valencia moves to November 29. All other rounds on the 2026 calendar remain unchanged, ensuring the championship retains its 21-race structure but extends deeper into the year. The post-Valencia test, which will feature the debut of new 850cc machines, is expected to occur on December 1.

MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta emphasized the rationale behind the changes: “This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard.” He also noted that ticket holders can rollover their purchases and thanked the Portimão and Valencia circuits for their flexibility.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit, expressed support: “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision… We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”

FIM President Jorge Viegas added: “The FIM fully supports the decision to reschedule the Qatar Grand Prix. Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials, and fans must always come first.”

This reshuffle could impact team logistics and rider fatigue, particularly with the late-season triple-header potentially influencing championship battles. However, organizers are confident the adjustments will maintain the excitement and integrity of the series. Fans eager for the full 2026 schedule should note that while the early rounds proceed as planned, the finale promises a dramatic close under the November lights.

With MotoGP’s global appeal, this change underscores the sport’s adaptability in the face of external challenges, ensuring a thrilling season ahead for competitors and spectators alike.

Revised 2026 MotoGP Calendar