Photo via Crash.net

Yamaha won't race in Qatar MotoGP in serious escalation of standoff with organisers

Yamaha has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix, citing ongoing corporate travel policies that restrict movement to the Middle East. This decision sidelines riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins for the event.

The move follows significant internal friction, as a large majority of the MotoGP grid recently petitioned organizers to cancel the race due to regional security concerns. While MotoGP leadership has threatened potential sporting and financial sanctions against participants who skip the round, Yamaha maintains its choice is independent of those pressures.

Meanwhile, Alex Marquez will also be absent from the grid as he recovers from a surgical procedure.

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