The FIM has introduced a major revision to MotoGP restart rules for 2026, impacting the way riders handle crashes and stalled bikes during sessions. Starting with the 2026 season, riders across MotoGP, WorldSBK, and all FIM circuit racing championships will no longer be allowed to restart their bikes from trackside or run-off areas, a move designed to enhance marshal safety.
Why the Change Was Made
Until now, riders who crashed but remained uninjured could attempt to restart their machines wherever they came to a halt, typically in a run-off area. However, this practice has increasingly raised safety concerns. When riders and marshals enter these areas to recover or restart bikes, they potentially expose themselves to oncoming traffic and create additional hazards in the “middle of a live session.”
New Protocol for Restarting Following a Crash
Under the revised rules, if a rider’s bike cannot continue following a crash, both the bike and the rider must immediately move behind the trackside barriers, onto the service road, where any restart attempts or repairs may be made. The bike may not be restarted or repaired in the run-off area or track.
Riders can still return to the race session after restarting their machine, but only after doing so from behind the barriers. In other words, direct on-track restart methods are now banned; the sole exception is if the rider’s bike never stopped running.
“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,”
FIM letter
“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.”
FIM letter
Variations for Practice and Race Sessions
The changes impact MotoGP and WorldSBK, as well as the FIM Endurance World Championship. In World Superbike’s practice and Superpole sessions, riders who have crashed can still return to the pits using the track since WorldSBK restricts riders from starting a new lap after a crash in these sessions. However, during races, they may continue only if they meet the updated restart criteria. In MotoGP and other FIM-sanctioned events, the policy is consistent: any attempt to restart must be done safely behind barriers, regardless of session type.
Role of Marshals and Permitted Assistance
Marshals retain a critical role in supporting riders after accidents but must strictly operate behind the barriers. If a motorcycle remains operational, marshals are authorized to prevent a re-entry if an inspection reveals damage that could endanger others, such as a fluid leak. Only the rider is permitted to carry out repairs or adjustments, which must also occur in the designated safe zone.
Official Justification and Upcoming Implementation
The regulation shift was triggered by recommendations from the Grand Prix Commission and SBK Commission, documented and communicated to circuit racing clerks, federations, race promoters, IRTA, and commission members. The overarching reason cited repeatedly by FIM in its communications was to reduce exposure and risk for track marshals. As the FIM notes:
“that this rule may present some challenges initially, but the overriding reason is to minimise the exposure of our track marshals to danger.”
FIM letter
FIM has urged all national federations to adopt this protocol, underlining its universal application to all FIM circuit racing championships.
Looking Ahead: Expected Impact on MotoGP and Beyond
This update to MotoGP restart rules 2026 sets a new precedent for trackside safety, reflecting mounting pressure to protect marshals and support staff. Although implementation may be complex and could affect how quickly riders rejoin sessions, the overriding aim is a safer environment for all. As the changes come into force, teams and riders such as those in MotoGP, WorldSBK, and the FIM Endurance World Championship will need to adapt strategies. The hope is that minimizing risk for both marshals and riders will ultimately lead to more secure racing events across all levels of FIM-sanctioned competitions.
