The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has released the first official MotoGP concussion assessment guidelines, set to be implemented in all motorcycle racing competitions. This move, announced at the FIM Medical Summit in Lyon in 2024, aims to address longstanding concerns about inconsistent concussion management in MotoGP following numerous incidents where riders reportedly exhibited symptoms yet continued racing.
Addressing Concussion Risks in Motorcycle Racing
Concussions, which are caused by forceful impacts to the head—a regular risk in motorcycle crashes—have recently attracted greater scrutiny in professional sports worldwide. Research has highlighted the serious, long-term health effects repeat head injuries can inflict upon athletes, increasing demands for more rigorous protocols and protection measures.
In previous MotoGP seasons, there has been criticism of a lack of robust concussion response, as some riders experiencing symptoms were still cleared to participate in subsequent races. This has raised questions about the sufficiency of existing standards and the prioritization of athletes’ well-being in the sport.
Features of the New Guidelines
The newly published guidelines were developed as a direct response to these concerns, according to FIM. The organization explained that the protocols will
“provide clear, consistent and sport-specific procedures for the assessment, management and return-to-sport process following concussion.”
This statement outlines the intention to bring structure and clarity to an area previously marked by uncertainty and varying interpretation.
Jorge Viegas, FIM president, emphasized that safety is central to the evolution of motorcycle sport, stating:
“Placing safety first is essential to the sustainable development of motorcycle sport. With the introduction of these concussion guidelines, the FIM is taking a decisive step to ensure that rider health and well-being remain at the heart of everything we do.”
He further asserted:
“This initiative reflects our responsibility to evolve the sport in a safe, structured and scientifically grounded manner, protecting riders today while building a stronger and more sustainable future for motorcycle sport worldwide.”
Dr David McManus, FIM Medical Director and head of the FIM International Medical Commission, noted the importance of the measures, adding:
“These guidelines represent an important step forward in protecting the health, well-being and safety of our riders,”
as he highlighted the processes behind their creation. He explained that their development involved in-depth research, engagement with medical experts, and cooperation with national federations and representatives from other sports.
Education remains a critical part of the program, as Dr McManus stressed:
“Education and awareness are essential, and these guidelines will be supported by dedicated educational programmes for riders, teams, officials and federations.”
Impact and Limitations of the Protocol
Although the MotoGP concussion assessment guidelines represent progress, their release does not make adherence mandatory, leaving the effectiveness of implementation somewhat uncertain. Teams, riders, officials, and national federations will need to integrate these guidelines voluntarily, pending any future policy changes from MotoGP or the FIM.
This initiative sets a precedent for motorcycle racing but leaves room for further advancements. The ongoing involvement of stakeholders, including riders like those represented at the FIM Medical Summit and medical professionals such as Dr McManus, will determine how soon, and how thoroughly, the culture around head injury assessment can change in MotoGP and motorcycle racing worldwide.
