The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to international endurance racing following the cancellation of this year’s Qatar 1812km at Lusail International Circuit (LIC).

The 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) race was initially postponed and rescheduled for October but was subsequently cancelled due to regional logistical and travel challenges.

QMMF said preparations are already focused on welcoming the championship back to Qatar for the opening round of the 2027 season.

Abdul Rahman Al Mannai, President of QMMF and LIC, said the cancellation was disappointing but stressed that the wellbeing of the WEC community remained the priority.

“Of course, it is disappointing that the race was ultimately cancelled this year. Everything was lined up and we were ready to go ahead, but we fully respect the decision-making process of the WEC and the sport’s governing body, the FIA,” said Al Mannai.

Qatar is scheduled to host the WEC Prologue group test on March 21-22, 2027, followed by the opening round of the nine-race championship at LIC on March 27.

The Qatar 1812km is a ten-hour endurance race that has become a popular season opener, with competitors racing from daylight into darkness at the state-of-the-art circuit.

“We are really excited that we will come back as the opening round for 2027 and we cannot wait,” said Al Mannai. “Qatar is not stepping away from endurance racing because of one difficult season, our commitment is long-term and we look forward to welcoming the teams, manufacturers, officials, media, and fans back to Qatar next March.”

QMMF is also continuing preparations for Qatar’s broader international motorsport calendar, with MotoGP and Formula 1 scheduled at Lusail International Circuit this November. Al Mannai said the federation would continue preparing for both events while monitoring regional developments.

“We cannot stop our plans for MotoGP and Formula 1. We have to be ready,” he said. “We are taking it one step at a time, assessing the situation and maintaining an open dialogue across both series, but so far everything is good and everything is a go-ahead.”

QMMF said its broader strategy remains focused on strengthening Qatar’s position as a major international motorsport destination while developing the sport domestically and supporting the next generation of Qatari competitors.

The federation’s continued investment in major global events at LIC is intended to reinforce the venue’s role on the international racing calendar and provide opportunities for local motorsport talent. -TradeArabia News Service