From the 2026 season, riders in MotoGP and World Superbike will no longer be allowed to restart their bikes in the run-off areas after a crash. This rule has been introduced by the FIM to improve safety for riders, marshals, and everyone working at the track.

In previous seasons, riders were allowed to try to restart their bikes close to the track if the engine stopped after a crash. This often meant marshals had to stand in open areas while other riders were still racing past at very high speed. The FIM decided that this situation created too much risk and needed to change.

Under the new rule, any bike that is not running after a crash must be moved behind the first line of safety barriers. The bike must then be taken to the service road or another protected place if no service road is available. Only in this safe area can the rider try to restart the bike.

Bikes must not be restarted on the track or in the run-off areas. This applies even if the rider feels the bike is fine. The goal is to keep the run-off areas clear and safe during live sessions.

Riders are still allowed to continue in the session or race after a crash if their bike can be restarted safely. The only difference is that the restart must happen behind the barriers instead of near the track.

If a bike has not stopped running, the rider may rejoin the track. However, marshals have the right to stop the rider if they believe the bike is damaged. This includes problems such as oil leaks, fuel leaks, or loose parts that could cause danger for other riders.

In MotoGP, riders can restart behind the barriers and then return to the track to continue their session or race. In World Superbike practice and Superpole sessions, riders are not allowed to begin a new lap after a crash, so they can ride back to the pits once the bike is restarted. In World Superbike races, riders are allowed to restart and continue racing without going to the pits.

Only the rider is allowed to make repairs or adjustments to the bike after a crash. These repairs must also take place behind the safety barriers. Team members are not allowed to help at the trackside. Marshals can assist with restarting the bike, but only in the protected area.

The rule was approved by both the Grand Prix Commission and the Superbike Commission. It was sent in an official letter to race organisers, national federations, teams, and circuit officials. The letter clearly explained that any non-running bike must be removed from the track and run-off areas as quickly as possible.

The FIM has admitted that the rule may cause some difficulties at first. Riders may lose more time, and races could be affected in some situations. However, the FIM believes that protecting marshals is more important than saving a few seconds in a session.

Track marshals play a very important role in motorcycle racing. They help riders after crashes, remove damaged bikes, and keep the track safe. The FIM wants to reduce the time marshals spend in dangerous open areas during sessions.

This rule will not only apply to MotoGP and World Superbike. It will also be used in all FIM circuit racing championships. This includes series such as the Endurance World Championship and other international competitions controlled by the FIM.

The FIM has also encouraged national federations to use the same rule in their local and national championships. This means the same safety standards could be used around the world.

The FIM believes that the change will make racing safer without removing the excitement of competition. Riders will still be able to fight for results, but in a way that better protects the people working closest to the action.

From 2026, fans may notice riders taking longer to return to the track after a crash, but this small delay is intended to save lives and prevent serious injuries. The FIM hopes the rule will quickly become normal and accepted across the sport.