AT LEAST NINE MOTOGP RIDERS REPORTEDLY REVERSE OPPOSITION TO QATAR RACE

At least nine MotoGP riders who initially opposed racing in Qatar have since indicated they are willing to compete, according to journalist Mela Chercoles. The shift follows private discussions about the Grand Prix amid continuing tensions in the Middle East, and comes as teams face pressure over whether to travel to Lusail.

Riders first discussed the issue at Phillip Island. In Sepang, 19 of the 22 riders signed a letter saying they did not want to go to Qatar. The three who supported racing were Marco Bezzecchi, Johann Zarco and Ai Ogura, Chercoles said. She reported that at least nine of the 19 who signed against the event have since told teams they would be prepared to race after all.

The change has been described as riders going “behind their teams’ backs,” though the report does not identify those who have altered their position. One possible factor is MotoGP’s warnings of sporting penalties for missing the race. Yamaha has already been threatened with points deductions, while riders could face bans from the final two rounds of the season.

Yamaha is the only factory to have withdrawn from the Qatar Grand Prix, citing safety concerns. The other manufacturers have confirmed they intend to travel. Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola has taken a firm stance, telling rivals to “stay at home” if they do not want to go. He has also questioned the “fuss” surrounding the event, noting that organisers have said it will be run as safely as possible.

The grid is already set to be short of at least five bikes: Yamaha’s four machines and Alex Marquez, who is among several riders expected to miss the race through injury. Joan Mir is also set to be absent, while Jorge Martin’s participation remains uncertain. If further riders withdraw, the field could shrink to just 12 competitors.