Qatar GP track issues shelter instructions in case of military attack ahead of F1 weekend

A motorsport journalist has shared a document on X detailing emergency shelters and safety protocols for the MotoGP race weekend at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar.

According to Mat Oxley, these instructions would also apply in the event of an attack during the Formula 1 Grand Prix, scheduled to take place at the same circuit from November 27 to 29.

The image posted features the Lusail Circuit logo alongside the title 'Internal Shelter Locations' and the date November 4.

While the circuit itself has not officially released this document, the safety guidelines have been distributed to teams and paddock staff ahead of the race weekend, which starts today (Friday) and runs through Sunday.

Seven key safety steps for the paddock and hotels

The protocol outlines seven clear steps covering different locations in case an alarm sounds. Everyone present is instructed to immediately seek shelter and to avoid looking outside or recording any footage.

For those in the paddock, the directive is to head straight to their team’s designated sturdy building, steering clear of tents, open paddock areas, and structures with glass façades.

Hotel guests are advised to use the stairs to reach the safe room or find shelter against an interior wall near stairwells, staying far from windows.

Anyone outside or in vehicles must move to the closest building or lie flat on the ground while protecting their head.

Afterward, all individuals must remain sheltered for at least ten minutes, or until an all-clear signal is given, and must not touch or photograph any debris.

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Rising tensions in the Middle East

These precautions come amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The conflict intensified when U.S. forces attacked Iran’s Qeshm Island on Monday evening, just as teams were traveling to Doha.

Because of this instability, the MotoGP race, originally scheduled for April, was postponed to November, and riders had previously requested written shelter and evacuation plans.

Travel restrictions imposed by manufacturers have also impacted the event. The factory teams of Yamaha and Pramac have withdrawn from this weekend’s race, meaning four bikes will be absent from the starting grid.

The broader consequences for F1 remain uncertain. There are discussions about potentially dropping the Qatar and Abu Dhabi races from the calendar, with Imola reportedly being considered as a replacement venue should changes be necessary.

However, F1 have stated that they still intend to stick to their original schedule, and are in constant contact with relevant authorities over the safety of the grands prix set to end the season.

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