Photo via Crash.net

Where F1 stands on racing in the Middle East after Yamaha’s MotoGP boycott

Formula 1 remains committed to hosting the final two races of the 2026 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, despite the escalating fallout from Yamaha’s decision to withdraw from next weekend’s MotoGP race in Qatar. The Japanese manufacturer’s boycott—sparked by rider concerns over competing amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran—has exposed tensions within MotoGP, where 19 of the 22 riders reportedly signed a letter expressing unease about the event.

While MotoGP’s governing body insists the Qatar race will proceed, the situation has raised questions about whether F1’s Middle Eastern schedule could face similar pressure, particularly given Liberty Media’s shared ownership of both championships. A letter sent to F1 teams during the Mexico Grand Prix weekend confirmed the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races are still planned, with no changes to travel or insurance advice, though organizers acknowledge that a significant escalation in regional tensions could alter those plans.

Political developments, including recent US midterm results and Israel’s post-election landscape, add further uncertainty, though F1 teams and drivers have largely deferred to the FIA and F1’s leadership to assess the risks. Red Bull’s team principal, Laurent Mekies, emphasized confidence in the governing bodies’ ability to make informed decisions, noting that logistics and security assessments are centrally managed by F1 and the FIA.

Meanwhile, drivers have largely avoided public commentary, with Carlos Sainz reversing earlier remarks to align with the official stance of relying on the FIA’s guidance.

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