A sweeping MotoGP 2026 safety rule change, announced by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), will prevent riders from restarting their bikes on the track following crashes, beginning with the 2026 season. This measure, impacting MotoGP, WorldSBK, and all circuit racing championships under the FIM, is aimed at boosting safety for riders and track marshals, fundamentally shifting the way crashes are managed during races and practice sessions.
Major Revision to Motorcycle Racing Safety Rules
The new safety directive comes in the wake of high-profile incidents, such as the 2024 clash at Portimao involving Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez—where Marquez was able to remount and rejoin the race. From 2026, such comebacks will become a relic, as any attempt to restart a bike on the track or in the run-off areas will be forbidden. This regulation seeks to address the risks faced not just by the competitors, but also by the marshals responsible for managing post-crash scenarios.
How the New Safety Protocol Will Work
Under the MotoGP 2026 safety rule change, if a motorcycle becomes incapacitated due to a crash or technical breakdown, it must promptly be moved beyond the track’s protective barriers. Once in this safer zone—well away from active racing lines—only then can the rider attempt to restart and re-enter the session or race. In MotoGP events, this process grants riders the possibility to continue, but solely after their bike is behind the barriers. For WorldSBK, the rules differ: during practice and Superpole, riders may return to the pits via the track, but during races, they are required to keep moving without stopping on the circuit.
Inspection and Oversight Before Restarting
Even if a crashed motorcycle appears to be operational, entry back into the race is not automatic. Officials will closely inspect for mechanical issues, including dangerous problems like fluid leaks, and can prevent riders from continuing if they spot any hazards. This layer of oversight aims to minimize further danger and protect everyone on and around the circuit.
FIM’s Direct Emphasis on Track Marshal Safety
The FIM has circulated a detailed directive placing strong emphasis on reducing risks for track personnel:
“After a crash or technical issue, any non-functional bike on the track or in the run-off areas must be moved immediately behind the first line of protection by the race officials. Bikes cannot be restarted on the track or in the run-off areas. They must be relocated to the service road, or a safe and protected area if no service road is available, where assistance for restarting can be provided.” — Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM)
This official stance signals the governing body’s priority of keeping track marshals out of harm’s way, ensuring emergency interventions happen only in controlled, shielded environments.
A New Era for Riders, Teams, and Fans
The scope of this rule extends beyond MotoGP and WorldSBK, encompassing all FIM-regulated circuit competitions, including endurance racing. While the FIM acknowledges the transition may present initial hurdles for riders and teams, it remains firm in its commitment to improving safety culture throughout motorcycle sport. The implementation of this rule change will demand rapid adaptation from all involved, reshaping race strategies and the conduct of riders in accident scenarios.
Heading into the 2026 season, the world of motorcycle racing faces a pivotal shift where safety gains new precedence, yet the fierce competitive spirit of motorsport fans, elite riders like Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia, and dedicated teams will continue to drive the thrill of the chase. With greater protections for track marshals and tighter oversight by race officials, the racetrack is set for an intense, but safer future under the new MotoGP 2026 safety rule change.
