until Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League
The MotoGP season could start with a test at Jerez followed by the season-opener at Portimao, with the new Qatar double-header potentially in doubt according to paddock sources.
A revised calendar was announced 10 days ago, postponing the second and third rounds of the championship in Argentina and the USA, while adding an additional race in Qatar for a season-opening double-header.
The new schedule also added Portugal’s Portimao to the calendar for the second year in succession.
However, those Qatar plans are now reportedly in jeopardy due to the COVID-19 situation in Europe and the impact that the arrival of 1500 people would have in Qatar.
It is believed that a series of meetings have been taking place this week between series promoters Dorna and the Qatari government.
It’s understood that the contingency plan if MotoGP cannot travel to Qatar is to start the year’s action with pre-season testing at Jerez, before moving to Portimao for the first scheduled European race.
Speaking on Monday and addressing the calendar situation, Suzuki’s Alex Rins said “if we don’t make the race in Qatar, I think we will start in Portimao, as that’s the next one after Qatar”.
Rins, who is currently training on a superbike at Portimao, added: “We don’t exactly know where we are going to start, but it looks like it might be in Jerez.
“I’m really excited to jump on the bike, but let’s see what happens because for sure it’s going to be another strange season.
“It’s a shame to have empty paddocks and no public, but in the end it’s the best situation.
“In the end we need to race, and last year was good, with all the parameters. I will be sad with no one at the track and not being able to feel the heat of the fans, but it’s like this.”
