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Criticism of Lusail Decision-Making
Experienced Italian rider manager Carlo Pernat has sharply criticized the MotoGP organization and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme over how they handled the situation surrounding the Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. Speaking in an interview with Italian outlet MOW, Pernat described the governing conduct as amateurish and accused the FIM of failing to show leadership at a crucial moment. He pointed in particular to the absence of FIM president Jorge Viegas during key decision-making, arguing that the federation should have established clear guidance when everyone was aware of the developing circumstances.
Regional Tensions and Safety Debates
The Grand Prix of Qatar, staged at Lusail International Circuit, had been subject to discussion for weeks due to geopolitical tensions across the Middle East. Several riders voiced concerns regarding personal safety, while Japanese manufacturer Yamaha ultimately decided not to travel to Qatar because of applicable company-wide travel restrictions. Although practice sessions have commenced and conditions on and around the track remain calm, debate regarding the process continues, with Pernat directing his criticism primarily at responsible executives. The entire episode has caused reputational damage to the MotoGP World Championship.
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Hosting Fees and Financial Considerations
Commercial considerations and financial interests also surround the Grand Prix of Qatar. According to Pernat's own estimate, Qatar pays between six and ten million euros to stage the race, figures he described as considerably higher than the amounts customary at other Grand Prix weekends. While those sums have not been independently confirmed, Pernat contended that such financial interests explain why organizers sought to hold onto the event at all costs.
Questions Surrounding Governing Independence
Pernat went further by questioning the financial relationship between MotoGP's commercial rights holder and the FIM, suggesting that such links could put the governing body's independent position under pressure. The Italian manager asserted that the international motorcycle federation has received substantial sums from the commercial organization behind the championship for many years, citing an annual fee of six to seven million dollars while acknowledging he does not know whether those figures remain current in 2026. However, the report noted that Pernat provided no concrete evidence to substantiate that suggestion.
Pending Decisions Regarding Yamaha Withdrawal
The criticism arrives as the FIM also faces an important decision regarding the absence of Yamaha. After the Japanese manufacturer opted not to participate due to applicable corporate travel restrictions, the MotoGP Group expressed disappointment and noted that the withdrawal could carry contractual as well as sporting consequences. It was explicitly indicated that any sporting penalties would be determined by the FIM based on applicable championship regulations. International media reports have discussed possible suspensions from remaining rounds in Portugal and Valencia, financial penalties, and effects on championship points, though for now such measures have not been confirmed. Pernat maintained that this uncertainty reflects a lack of governing authority, arguing that the federation should have taken far clearer leadership when the interests of organizers, manufacturers, and riders diverged, leaving potential measures against Yamaha as an upcoming test for the international federation.
