Phoenix 24
Lusail remains on the calendar, but regional stability will determine whether either race reaches the starting line.
LUSAIL, QATAR
Qatar is continuing preparations to host MotoGP and Formula One in November despite uncertainty created by the regional conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. Abdul Rahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, president of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation, said the country must remain operationally ready while international championship organisers assess security conditions.
MotoGP is scheduled to compete at the Lusail International Circuit on November 8. The race was originally planned for earlier in the season but was postponed following the escalation of hostilities across the Middle East. Formula One’s Qatar Grand Prix remains scheduled for November 29, although the championship expects to make a final decision in mid-September.
Al Mannai said Qatar has returned to normal daily activity and that Hamad International Airport is fully operational, including transit connections between Asia and Europe. Those statements represent the federation’s assessment of conditions inside the country, not a guarantee that the races will proceed. MotoGP, Formula One, teams, insurers and international authorities will conduct their own security and logistical evaluations.
The uncertainty has already affected other competitions. The World Endurance Championship cancelled its October round in Qatar, while earlier Formula One events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were removed or relocated. If Qatar and Abu Dhabi cannot host the final races, Formula One has considered completing its season at European circuits. MotoGP could also move or cancel its Lusail event if transport, insurance or personnel safety cannot be assured.
Lusail is commercially important to both championships. Qatar has hosted MotoGP since 2004 and staged the series’ first night race four years later. Formula One arrived in 2021 and subsequently signed a long-term hosting agreement. Gulf races contribute substantial fees, sponsorship and global visibility, giving organisers powerful financial reasons to preserve them whenever security permits.
Qatar’s preparations therefore reflect both resilience and economic strategy. Continuing construction, staffing and logistics protects the country’s ability to host the events, but it also exposes organisers to costs if conditions deteriorate. The decisive question is not whether Lusail can prepare the circuit, but whether regional risks remain acceptable when thousands of competitors, workers and spectators begin travelling.
Lo visible y lo oculto, en contexto. / The visible and the hidden, in context.