MARQUEZ UNCOMFORTABLE WITH QATAR GP LOCATION AS TITLE FIGHT CONTINUES
5 Nov 2026·
Marc Marquez says he would prefer not to be in Qatar, but is ready to race as the MotoGP title fight reaches a potentially decisive weekend at Lusail.
“I mean, I would like to be in another place,” the Ducati rider said. He explained that he had taken the latest possible flight to Qatar and planned to leave on the earliest one available. “But we are here, ready to race and fully concentrated.”
His comments come amid concern about the possibility of hostilities escalating in the Middle East. Yamaha has withdrawn from the event, citing existing company-wide travel restrictions, while the other four manufacturers and nine teams have arrived as planned. Riders have appeared resigned to competing, though some took a more positive tone at Thursday’s media day.
Marquez could secure another world title on Sunday, but the points required make that a demanding prospect. He needs to outscore closest rival Jorge Martin by 30 points across the weekend and also make sufficient gains on Marco Bezzecchi. If he does not clinch the championship in Qatar, the contest will continue at Portimao and could run to the Valencia finale.
“[The title is] closer, but still far,” Marquez said. With three races remaining, he said his approach would be to attack, give his maximum and assess his position as the weekend unfolds. “Our mentality, as we showed in Malaysia, is the same.”
Qatar has been a successful circuit for Marquez: last year he took pole and won both races, his first victories there since 2014. He said he would begin by seeking rhythm and pace from the opening practice session, then build from there. “The most important is to finish both races.”
Martin’s participation remains uncertain. He fractured his right wrist at Phillip Island less than two weeks ago and could not progress beyond practice at Sepang. He must pass a medical check on Friday to be cleared to return. Marquez’s brother Alex will miss the Qatar round after shoulder surgery; Iker Lecuona is replacing him at Gresini.