News Summary
- Marco Bezzecchi, Ai Ogura and Johann Zarco were reportedly the only three riders who did not sign a letter opposing the Qatar Grand Prix, according to Spanish journalist Mela Chércoles.
- Nineteen riders signed the document demanding greater responsibility from MotoGP organisers, although nine have reportedly since told their teams they intend to travel.
- Bezzecchi publicly defended MotoGP’s safety procedures, while Ogura said he considers racing his responsibility if the event goes ahead.
Marco Bezzecchi, Ai Ogura and Johann Zarco have reportedly emerged as the three MotoGP riders who declined to sign a letter challenging the decision to proceed with the 2026 Qatar Grand Prix. The document, backed by 19 of the championship’s 22 regular riders, reflects growing concerns about safety in the Middle East ahead of the November 6–8 event at Lusail.
According to Spanish journalist Mela Chércoles, whose information was reported by Crash.net on Monday (November 2), the three riders did not join the collective request for MotoGP to assume responsibility for the consequences of staging the race.
The reasons behind their decisions have not been established, and not signing the letter does not necessarily mean supporting every aspect of the organisers’ position.
Bezzecchi defends MotoGP as riders disagree over Qatar
Bezzecchi, who races for Aprilia, expressed confidence in the championship’s handling of safety concerns.
The Italian argued that MotoGP has considerable experience managing difficult situations and cited the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix as evidence that organisers are prepared to prioritise safety when necessary.
He also emphasised that individual riders and team personnel should be free to make their own decisions about travelling.
Bezzecchi said he would respect anyone who decided not to attend, rather than criticising those uncomfortable with the situation.
Ogura, meanwhile, adopted a more straightforward position.
The Trackhouse Aprilia rider said that, if a race is scheduled to take place, he considers competing to be part of his job.
Zarco has also been identified among the reported non-signatories, although his specific reasoning has not been independently established.
Nine signatories reportedly plan to travel despite opposition
The situation is more complicated than a simple division between 19 riders refusing to race and three supporting the event.
According to the same report, nine of the 19 riders who signed the letter have subsequently informed their teams that they intend to travel to Qatar.
That distinction is significant.
The riders’ document called for greater accountability and assurances concerning the event, but signing it does not automatically amount to a commitment to boycott the Grand Prix.
Jack Miller previously revealed that 19 riders opposed racing in Qatar, citing concerns about regional instability, evacuation arrangements and the safety of paddock personnel.
The Australian’s manufacturer, Yamaha, has since announced that it will not participate.
MotoGP has responded by maintaining its commitment to staging the event and warning that Yamaha’s withdrawal could have contractual and sporting consequences.
Márquez remains cautious as championship approaches decisive weekend
Marc Márquez has avoided offering a detailed public assessment of the safety dispute.
The Ducati rider has indicated that he intends to arrive in Qatar as late as possible before practice begins.
The championship leader plans to travel on Thursday, with his first opportunity to secure the 2026 MotoGP title approaching.
Márquez leads Jorge Martín by 44 points after winning the Malaysian Grand Prix.
His younger brother Álex, meanwhile, has confirmed that he will miss Qatar to undergo shoulder surgery.
The growing uncertainty leaves MotoGP facing two simultaneous challenges: maintaining the planned event and addressing the concerns of riders who believe the available safety guarantees remain insufficient.
GRANDE PRÊMIO is following preparations for the Qatar Grand Prix this weekend, with breaking news, full coverage and real-time updates in its MotoGP section.
