Beginning January 1, 2026, all MotoGP riders must wear helmets that meet the FIM FRHPhe-02 approval standard, a stricter safety certification designed to reduce head injuries in circuit racing. This regulation, enforced globally including at venues like Sepang in Malaysia and Thailand, aims to improve rider protection by imposing advanced testing criteria on helmet manufacturers.
Recent Communications and Compliance Reminders for Riders
On the eve of the Sepang circuit shakedown, DORNA, IRTA, MSMA, and representatives from MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 issued a formal letter to all riders emphasizing the necessity to verify their helmets comply with FIM FRHPhe-02 standards. They were urged to review the official approved helmet list and ensure no one arrives at the opening Grand Prix using helmets that lack certification.
Controversy Arises Over Missing Helmet Brands, Including Suomy
The published list of helmets authorized under the new rules notably omits certain brands, including Suomy, which affects prominent riders such as Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia. This raises concerns about whether Bagnaia might be forced to miss races in Malaysia or Thailand if his current gear does not receive homologation in time. However, precedents suggest there may be temporary solutions.
Helmet Compliance Solutions and Past Precedents
Similar circumstances occurred in early 2019 with Andrea Dovizioso’s helmet, reportedly from Alpinestars, which was brought into compliance through cooperation with manufacturers. Certain brands are prepared to support riders whose helmets are initially unlisted by providing approved helmets that can be masked under existing branding. This workaround safeguards participation while maintaining safety standards.
“to provide approved helmets to be placed under the non-approved brand stickers of the rider”
— Official Source
Details of the FIM FRHPhe-02 Helmet Approval Process
The FIM FRHPhe-02 standard represents a significant advancement in helmet safety by expanding impact testing protocols. The evaluation includes rigorous assessment of linear impacts across 9 to 13 zones randomly selected from 22 specified locations on the helmet. This ensures uniform protection against high- and medium-low severity impacts, aimed at minimizing skull fractures.
Innovatively, the testing incorporates oblique impact measurements to evaluate helmets’ capacity to reduce rotational accelerations that contribute to brain injuries—a factor previously overlooked in international standards. This focus on realistic accident dynamics marks a major leap forward.
Additional requirements include a penetration resistance test to verify helmet shell integrity against sharp objects, as well as mandatory quick-release cheek pads identified by a red pull tab, designed to improve emergency removal safety. These elements work together to enhance both protection and practicality for riders.
Core Features of FIM FRHPhe-02 Safety Standards
- High-energy linear impact testing applied randomly to multiple helmet zones
- Oblique impact testing to mitigate rotational forces linked to brain trauma
- Penetration tests to confirm resistance against sharp or pointed objects
- Chin strap with reinforced foam and fast-extraction cheek pads
- Mandatory compliance for all circuit racing helmets starting in 2026, extending even to off-road use
Implications for Riders and the Racing Season Ahead
The enforcement of the FIM FRHPhe-02 standard marks the most rigorous helmet safety regime in motorcycle racing history. While designed to significantly improve rider safety, the transition presents immediate challenges, including potential supply issues for certain brands like Suomy and concerns for top riders such as Francesco Bagnaia. How manufacturers and teams resolve these barriers will shape early 2026 competitions and set new safety benchmarks for the sport.
