### Expect a Thrilling Start to Qatar’s MotoGP Season This November!
Photo by Mark Sutton - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images Formula 1 clashes likely to block MotoGP’s rumoured Qatar finale date. MotoGP’s rumoured plan to move the Grand Prix of Qatar to December looks unlikely, as Formula 1 is set to take priority over the Lusail International Circuit during that time. The event, originally scheduled for November, is under review due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
The conflict has already led F1 to cancel its races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. But with F1 expected to use the circuit on either side of their own season finale, it’s highly doubtful that MotoGP would be able to get track time during that period. Adding further doubt is the fact that Lusail will need time afterward for preparation and maintenance work.
MotoGP will be back at Lusail for round four in April and a final call on when or if the Qatari Grand Prix will take place isn’t expected until closer to then. F1 schedule clashes with MotoGP’s plans for Qatar Photo by Sona Maleterova/Getty Images Simon Patterson and Mat Oxley had floated the idea of MotoGP heading to Qatar in early December, but Formula 1’s existing plans may rule that out. F1 is set to race at Lusail just a week earlier, making a quick turnaround between events unlikely.
The changes needed for the track setup between the two series are significant. Patterson took to X to explain why he thinks it won’t be feasible. “Someone in the know has just reminded me that Qatar hosting F1 and MotoGP back to back (let alone simultaneously) might well be impossible given that there needs to be significant alterations to kerbs and gravel traps” Changes expected for the 2027 MotoGP schedule The MotoGP calendar has been a frequent topic of conversation lately, with a series of changes expected to come into play for the 2027 season.
In 2026, Argentina was dropped from the schedule and Brazil was added in its place. But by 2027, Argentina is expected to make its return, while Australia will move from Phillip Island to Adelaide. The Australian Grand Prix could also be moved to November in 2027, which may turn it into that season’s finale.