Qatar will NOT host opening round of 2023 MotoGP season

Due to ‘extensive renovation and remodelling to the paddock area and circuit facilities’, MotoGP’s only night race will be postponed until later in the 2023 MotoGP season.

The provisional 2023 calendar is yet to be announced but candidates to replace Qatar as the season opener could include Indonesia’s Mandalika circuit, round two of this season, and Australia’s Phillip Island, long rumoured for a possible move forwards from October to March due to better weather.

Qatar has hosted the opening round of the MotoGP season since 2007 (although the MotoGP class did not compete at the event in 2020 due to Covid restrictions) with the sport's first night race held at the track in 2008.

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The full statement concerning Qatar's move 'towards the end' of the 2023 season can be seen below:

'Lusail International Circuit is set to undergo extensive renovation and remodelling to the paddock area and circuit facilities for 2023. The track is already confirmed on the MotoGP calendar until at least 2031, and the works will see the Middle East’s flagship motorsport venue further confirm its status as one of the world’s best-equipped racing facilities.

'The remodelling project will begin to take shape in 2022 and will see various areas redeveloped to create an even better experience for all those racing at and visiting the venue, from riders and teams to fans and guests. That includes new areas for spectators, establishing Lusail as a truly state-of-the-art, cutting edge racetrack.

'Lusail will host the 2023 Grand Prix of Qatar upon completion of the work, meaning the event will therefore not be the opening round, as it has been from 2007. Instead it will take place towards the end of the season, under the spectacular floodlights of Lusail as the sport returns to enjoy some incredible racing – as has become tradition at the Qatar GP.'