Lusail Speed Fest’s second race weekend extravaganza – which incorporates the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar – is set to take place from March 8 to 10. Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has played host to MotoGP since 2004 and it will once again host the season-opening race.
As teams get ready to take part in the highest class of motorcycle road racing, LIC has shared an essential guide for fans to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.
The information and timings are subject to change, so it’s advisable to stay updated by and checking the LIC social media channels for real-time updates. The Grand Prix of Qatar timetable covers the full weekend track schedule, including details of all practice and qualifying sessions, support races, and special events.
The venue gate opening times
• Friday, March 8 - From 12.30pm until 10.30pm
• Saturday, March 9 - from 11am until 9.30pm.• Sunday, March 10 - From 1.30pm until 9pm.
Arriving at the Lusail International Circuit
Metro: The public transportation system has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that attendees reach their destination with ease. A free shuttle bus service will be conveniently located at Lusail QNB Shelter Two which is on the West side of Lusail Metro station.
Shuttles will run as follows:
Friday, March 8: 2pm – 9pm
Saturday, March 9: 11am – 8pm
Sunday, March 10: 1pm – 9pm
The expected travel time in the shuttle is about 20 minutes.
Personal vehicle: If you are planning to arrive at the circuit with your own vehicle, please be mindful of the following:
• Free parking spaces are available but ticket holders are encouraged to make use of public transport and to car-pool as much as possible.
• Plan to arrive early as traffic congestion is expected on the roads surrounding the circuit and in the parking areas.
• Access to Lusail Circuit will be allowed from Al Khor Coastal Road. Exit 32 and follow the Spectators sign to reach a designated parking area.
• To conveniently reach the parking area, download the LIC APP and follow the spectator parking directions. Go to the maps tab, choose your ticket category and follow the parking directions.
• For spectators requiring accessibility support, designated parking spaces will be available in compliance with the disability parking permit.
Taxi: Karwa taxis will be available at designated drop off and pick up points near the venue entry gates until venue gates close and after this time taxis can be requested via Karwa Taxi Application.
A guide to the venue
Security and ticket check
Attendees are required to undergo thorough inspection before entering the circuit. All fans are requested to comply with the officers as they are responsible for ensuring everyone’s safety and security:
• Refer to the list of prohibited and restricted items before planning your arrival to the circuit to avoid having your items confiscated.
• Get your tickets ready! Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and your cellular data sufficient as you will need to display your ticket clearly with the QR code at the venue gates.
• Ensure your ticket gets scanned out every time you leave the venue security perimeter, otherwise your re-entry will be denied.
• Do not purchase tickets through unauthorised secondary market resellers as they don’t have official tickets for sale, and you won’t be admitted to the event.
What else is going on during race weekend?
The Grand Prix of Qatar is the only race in the MotoGP calendar to take place at night and this year it will be held under LIC’s stunning floodlights. Having wowed fans last November, the action-packed ‘Sprint Race Saturday’ will also make a welcome return this year.
Additionally, the Grand Prix of Qatar will also be supported by the first round of the Qatar Superstock 600 Championship during the race weekend.
On Saturday, first 400 fans to enter the venue will have an opportunity to meet their favourite Moto2 & Moto3 riders and take photos with them from 3:10pm-3:40pm.
On Sunday, the first 400 spectators to enter the venue will have access to the MotoGP Hero Walk (4pm-4:40pm) giving fans the chance to see their favourite MotoGP icons in the flesh.
