News Summary
- Jack Miller says 19 of MotoGP’s 22 riders do not want to race in Qatar, citing security concerns linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
- The Australian demands that MotoGP organisers accept responsibility for proceeding with the event, arguing that insurance and evacuation guarantees do not resolve every concern.
- Yamaha subsequently confirmed its withdrawal from Qatar, while MotoGP insists the November 6–8 Grand Prix will go ahead and warns of possible consequences.
Jack Miller has revealed that 19 of MotoGP’s 22 riders oppose competing in next weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix, accusing championship organisers of failing to adequately address concerns about regional security. Speaking after Sunday’s (November 1) Malaysian Grand Prix, the Australian insisted that riders had already made their position clear and demanded that those responsible for maintaining the Lusail event accept accountability for the decision.
“I don’t want to go,” Miller told reporters at Sepang, explaining that 19 riders shared his opposition to travelling. The Pramac Yamaha rider argued that the current circumstances were unsuitable for staging a major international sporting event.
Miller demands accountability from MotoGP organisers
Miller explained that the riders had attempted to present a united position during discussions with the championship.
Their concerns extend beyond the competitors themselves to mechanics, engineers and other personnel required to travel to Qatar.
The Australian stressed that his objections were not directed at Qatar itself, but at the wider regional instability and uncertainty surrounding the event.
He also raised concerns about the predictability of the paddock’s movements, noting that the location and timing of MotoGP activities are publicly known.
The riders have requested assurances covering evacuation, repatriation, medical support and insurance in the event of a deterioration in the security situation.
However, Miller argued that financial protection does not replace responsibility for deciding whether the event should take place.
He also acknowledged that riders could face financial or sporting sanctions if they refused to participate, potentially affecting their teams as well.
Yamaha withdraws as MotoGP insists Qatar race will proceed
Miller’s comments came shortly before Yamaha announced that it would not participate in the Qatar Grand Prix.
The Japanese manufacturer cited company-wide travel restrictions following its latest assessment of the situation in the Middle East.
The decision affects both its factory team and Pramac, removing four motorcycles from the expected grid.
MotoGP responded by expressing disappointment and warning that Yamaha’s withdrawal could have contractual and sporting consequences.
No specific sporting penalties have been announced, with any disciplinary decisions falling under the authority of the FIM.
Organisers maintain that the event can proceed based on information provided by Qatari authorities, embassies, the circuit and independent security advisers.
The dispute has also affected preparations among the championship’s leading riders.
Marc Márquez intends to arrive in Qatar on Thursday, as late as possible before Friday practice.
The Ducati rider leads Jorge Martín by 44 points after winning the Malaysian Grand Prix and could secure his eighth premier-class championship at Lusail.
The Qatar Grand Prix remains scheduled for November 6–8, despite the opposition described by Miller and Yamaha’s confirmed withdrawal.
GRANDE PRÊMIO is following preparations for the Qatar Grand Prix, with breaking news, full coverage and real-time updates in its MotoGP section.
