Big changes are coming to MotoGP and WorldSBK in 2026, and they're all about safety! The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has just announced a significant rule change that will affect how riders can get back in the race after a crash. Let's dive in!
Up until now, if a rider's bike stalled after a crash, they were allowed to try and restart it right there in the run-off area. This meant that both riders and track marshals could be exposed to dangerous situations during a live race session.
But here's where it gets controversial... the FIM is now banning riders from restarting their bikes in the run-off area. Instead, if a bike cuts out after a crash, the rider must now move the bike behind the trackside barriers, on the service road, to attempt a restart. Riders can still rejoin the track from this location.
In World Superbike practice and Superpole sessions, riders can still ride back to the pits on the track. During a race, they can continue without pitting.
For MotoGP, riders can still continue in the session after a crash, but they must restart their bike from behind the trackside barriers, not in the run-off areas.
If the bike is still running, the rider can rejoin the race. However, marshals can prevent them from rejoining if the bike has sustained damage that could cause a dangerous situation on the track, such as a fluid leak.
This rule change comes as a result of decisions made by the Grand Prix Commission and SBK Commission and has been communicated in a letter from the FIM to key stakeholders.
The FIM's letter clearly states: "After a crash or technical problem, 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. Machines must not be restarted on the track or run-off area. They must be moved to the service road (or in a safe and protected place in case of absence of service road), where assistance to restart may be provided."
It also clarifies that only riders can make repairs or adjustments to their bikes after a crash, and this must also happen behind the barriers. Marshals can still help riders restart their bikes, but again, this must be done behind the barriers.
The FIM says this is all about improving the safety of the marshals. They acknowledge that this new rule might present some initial challenges, but the main goal is to minimize the risk to track marshals. The rule applies to all FIM-sanctioned circuit racing championships, including the FIM Endurance World Championship.
What do you think about this new rule? Do you agree with the FIM's decision to prioritize marshal safety, even if it means a slight change to how riders get back in the race? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
