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Reported Retaliatory Target List
Hotels accommodating Formula 1 and MotoGP teams have reportedly been included on a list of potential Iranian targets, according to coverage originating from Iranian media outlet Fars. These lodging venues appear within an intelligence document outlining possible retaliatory strikes across the broader region should the United States and Israel conduct further military actions. The publication of the report, titled "Zero Hour," contains multiple regional sites and emerged only days before MotoGP is scheduled to hold its Grand Prix at Lusail from November 6–8, 2026. Meanwhile, Formula 1 is slated to stage championship rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi later this month.
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Regional Lodging and Authenticity Doubts
According to reporting by GPblog, an Iranian intelligence agency distributed the dossier identifying prospective locations for retaliatory strikes, specifying hospitality facilities throughout Qatar and the United Arab Emirates utilized by MotoGP riders and Formula 1 drivers. However, while these accommodation properties were placed on the potential target registry, their inclusion does not indicate that the venues face an immediate direct threat. In addition, the authenticity of the circulated document remains under doubt, with the material requiring further verification.
Yamaha Confirms Qatar Withdrawal
The security concerns arise as MotoGP plans to proceed with its race weekend despite heating tensions across the Middle East, with the event overshadowed by potential strikes from Iran. Prior to the circulation of the target document, Yamaha announced its withdrawal from the Qatar Grand Prix. The Japanese manufacturer confirmed that all competitors across both its factory squad and satellite operation in the MotoGP class are certain to be absent, prompting MotoGP Group to publicly express regret over the decision.
MotoGP Promoter Response
Responding to the pullout, MotoGP Group stated that the organization was disappointed with Yamaha's decision not to participate in the grand prix. While acknowledging that the squad was bound by wider corporate policies regarding travel restrictions into the Middle East, the series promoter maintained that this decision failed to reflect the comprehensive assurances provided to all championship stakeholders. MotoGP Group emphasized that following consultations with the State of Qatar, Lusail International Circuit, independent security advisers, and its own ongoing risk assessment processes, officials have received no information necessitating any changes to established event plans.
