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The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has introduced significant changes to the regulations governing bike restarts following crashes in both the MotoGP and World Superbike (WorldSBK) championships. Effective from the 2026 season, these new rules aim to enhance safety for riders and marshals, addressing previously hazardous practices during live racing sessions.
Traditionally, riders involved in crashes could attempt to restart their bikes in the run-off areas of the track. This practice often resulted in precarious conditions, exposing both marshals and other riders to potential dangers. The latest directive from the FIM seeks to mitigate these risks by implementing stricter procedures.
New restart procedures to enhance safety
Under the new FIM guidelines, riders must now restart their machines behind trackside barriers, specifically on designated service roads. This adjustment ensures that stalled bikes are moved away from live track areas, significantly reducing the risk of accidents involving marshals and other riders. Although riders can still rejoin the track from these service roads, the requirement for a safer restarting location is a vital development.
Impact on MotoGP and WorldSBK practices
The implications of this regulation are particularly significant within the MotoGP and WorldSBK contexts. During practice and Superpole events in WorldSBK, riders can navigate back to the pits on the track following a crash, as the rules prohibit them from starting a new lap in these non-race sessions. Conversely, MotoGP riders will be able to continue participating in the session after a crash, provided they comply with the new requirement for restarting their bikes from behind the barriers.
Moreover, if a bike remains operational after a crash, the rider may rejoin the event. However, marshals have the authority to prevent a rider from re-entering the track if they identify any damage that could pose a risk, such as a potential fluid leak. This additional layer of scrutiny serves to uphold safety standards for all participants.
Reasons behind the regulation change
This regulatory shift results from collaborative discussions conducted by the Grand Prix Commission and the SBK Commission. In a letter addressed to various stakeholders, including circuit racing officials and national federations, the FIM underscored the importance of moving non-operational machines behind the first line of protection immediately after an incident.
According to the FIM’s letter, “Any non-running machine on the track or in run-off areas must be taken immediately behind the first line of protection by the marshals.” The letter further stipulates that no attempts to restart machines should occur in these areas, instead mandating that assistance must be provided in designated safe locations. Only the riders themselves are allowed to make repairs or adjustments to their bikes after a crash, reinforcing the need for a controlled environment for such actions.
Encouraging national federations to adopt similar protocols
The FIM has expressed hope that national federations will adopt these protocols in their own racing events, despite acknowledging potential challenges in implementation. The primary goal remains minimizing the risk faced by marshals, who play an integral role in ensuring the safety of racing environments. This regulation is not exclusive to MotoGP and WorldSBK; it will also apply across all FIM-sanctioned racing championships, including the FIM Endurance World Championship.
The forthcoming regulations for the 2026 season represent a significant advancement in enhancing the safety of both riders and marshals within the high-octane realm of motorcycle racing. By instituting these changes, the FIM aspires to create a more secure racing environment, enabling all participants to focus on the thrill of competition without compromising safety.