Yamaha pulls out of next weekend's MotoGP race in Qatar over safety concerns in the Middle East

Yamaha says it will not race next weekend’s MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix, citing safety concerns in the Middle East. In a statement, the Japanese team said it assessed the situation independently of MotoGP Group and the event organizer, adding it has not found “sufficient grounds” to change its existing company-wide travel restrictions. MotoGP expressed disappointment, saying it had received “extensive assurances” after consultations with the State of Qatar, Lusail International Circuit, independent safety advisers and MotoGP’s own risk process. MotoGP said the rest of the grid will compete and warned Yamaha of contractual obligations and potential sporting consequences managed by the FIM. Two races remain for Yamaha in Portugal and Spain.