HONDA RIDER MANAGER BACKS YAMAHA’S QATAR WITHDRAWAL

Yamaha’s decision to skip this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix has drawn praise from Paco Sanchez, manager of Honda rider Joan Mir and Trackhouse’s Raul Fernandez, who said safety should take priority over racing.

Yamaha announced on Sunday that it would not travel to Qatar, citing company-wide travel restrictions. The manufacturer said measures put in place by MotoGP Group and the event organiser were not enough to change its position. MotoGP Group, however, described its assurances as extensive and said it had received no information that justified changing the plans.

The dispute could carry consequences for Yamaha. MotoGP warned that the team may have breached its agreements with the series and the International Road-Racing Teams’ Association, while the FIM could impose sporting sanctions. Satellite outfit Pramac is also included in Yamaha’s withdrawal.

Sanchez praised the decision in a post on X, writing: “Congratulations to Yamaha for making the decision not to travel to Qatar. Safety and well-being must always come before any competition.” He called it “a brave, responsible decision worthy of recognition,” adding: “True values are demonstrated off the track too!” His comments suggested other manufacturers should also reconsider taking part.

The remaining four manufacturers are still expected to race, despite reportedly being unimpressed with how the situation has been handled. Ducati and Aprilia have world-championship incentives to compete, while KTM and Honda may be reluctant to risk sanctions by following Yamaha’s lead.

The grid could be reduced to as few as 12 or 13 riders. Mir is a doubt after retiring in Malaysia with vision problems, raising questions about his recovery from illness. Fernandez was declared unfit after Friday’s first practice session as he continues to recover from fractured fingers sustained in Indonesia.