DOHA: Lusail International Circuit is gearing up to host the 2026 Qatar Airways Grand Prix, the 20th round of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship from tomorrow (November 6 to 8).
The event, marking the 77th edition of the motorcycle racing championship, comes at a crucial stage of the season as the battle for the world title approaches its conclusion.
This year’s Grand Prix will be Qatar’s 23rd appearance on the international MotoGP calendar since making its debut in 2004. It will also be the 20th time the event has been staged under floodlights, reinforcing Lusail’s reputation as a unique night-racing destination.
A grid of 22 riders, featuring established world champions and emerging talents, is expected to deliver an exciting weekend of competition for motorsport fans.
Lusail International Circuit officially opened in 2004, hosting Qatar’s inaugural MotoGP Grand Prix, which was won by Spain’s Sete Gibernau.
A major milestone followed in 2008 when Qatar introduced night racing, becoming the first venue to stage a MotoGP Grand Prix under floodlights. Lusail remains the only circuit on the championship calendar to conduct all its races at night.
Following extensive redevelopment, the circuit retained its 5.380-kilometre layout while incorporating modern facilities and technological improvements.
Qatar’s continued presence on the MotoGP calendar reflects its growing standing in international motorsports and its commitment to hosting major sporting events in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Lusail is also regarded as one of Asia’s leading motorsport venues, alongside Motegi in Japan, Sepang in Malaysia and Buriram in Thailand.
