The Qatar Grand Prix has officially been postponed from its original April slot to 8 November 2026, according to an announcement by MotoGP, citing the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.

The decision was taken in coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the championship promoter and local authorities in Qatar. Organisers said the move prioritises the safety, wellbeing, and smooth delivery of the event for teams, riders, and fans.

The race, traditionally held under the floodlights at the iconic Lusail International Circuit near Doha, will now take place from 6–8 November 2026.

Calendar Adjustments for 2026 MotoGP Season

With the Qatar round moving to November, MotoGP has adjusted the closing stages of the championship calendar to minimise disruption.

The Portuguese Grand Prix at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portimão will now take place on 22 November, while the traditional season finale, the Valencia Grand Prix at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, has been moved to 29 November 2026.

MotoGP confirmed that all other rounds of the 2026 championship remain unchanged.

MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta Explains Decision

Carmelo Ezpeleta said the change was made after extensive consultation with stakeholders across the paddock and event partners.

“This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock,” Ezpeleta said.
“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 emphasised the importance of giving fans clarity as early as possible.

“Ticket holders will be given the opportunity to roll over their tickets to the next event. I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar.”

Qatar Officials Support Revised Date

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit, confirmed that local authorities support the revised schedule.

“The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit respect and support the decision to postpone the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026,” he said.
“We thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail.”

FIM Endorses Safety-First Approach

Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, also backed the decision, stressing that the safety of riders, teams, officials and spectators remains paramount.

“Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials and fans must always come first,” Viegas said.
“We are confident that the updated calendar ensures the event in Qatar can be delivered in the safest and most professional conditions.”