At the dawn of this new season, MotoGP is implementing a rule that could significantly change rider behavior during races. Indeed, it is now prohibited to assist a rider in restarting their motorcycle after a crash or technical issue on the track. This decision aims to enhance the safety of the marshals and alter the dynamics of the races.
A Measure to Limit Risks
At the heart of this year’s regulatory reforms, an article states that a motorcycle whose engine has stopped, whether on the track or in a run-off area, will be immediately evacuated by the marshals. They will be able to assist the rider by lifting and holding the motorcycle while repairs or adjustments are made, but only behind the first line of protection. This means that once the motorcycle is stopped, any assistance must be done out of harm’s way.
This new rule, voted on by the safety commission last November, applies not only to MotoGP but also to all other track racing championships governed by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme, including WorldSBK. Paul Duparc, sporting director of the Circuit Racing Commission (CCR) at FIM, clearly expressed the goal of this decision: “Minimize the exposure of our track marshals to danger.”
Changes in Rider Behavior
This directive will render some scenes that have become familiar to MotoGP fans obsolete. Marc Márquez, known for his competitiveness on the track, is one of those who has often tried to get back on his bike after a crash. Let’s remember his incident with Pecco Bagnaia during the 2024 Portugal GP, where he managed to get back on his Ducati with the help of a marshal, under yellow flags. A situation that can no longer occur under this new regulation.
Despite their different styles, Márquez and Bagnaia seem to agree on the importance of this rule. During a recent Ducati presentation in Madonna di Campiglio, Márquez stated: “I agree because in the end, it’s a safety measure.” For his part, Bagnaia added: “It’s a good change for safety.” This uniformity in their statements reflects a collective desire to improve racing conditions.
Implications for Riders
With this new rule, riders will need to make extra efforts to prevent their engines from stopping. Indeed, if a motorcycle shuts off after a crash, it can no longer be restarted on the track. This could lead some to rethink their racing strategy. “We need to ensure that the bike keeps running,” Bagnaia emphasized, noting that every second counts.
Márquez also addressed this issue, stating that he is aware of the challenges this poses for the marshals: “It will sometimes be difficult for them, but if the rules say that you cannot rejoin the track if the bike shuts off, then it’s clear.” A statement that proves that even at the top of their sport, safety remains an absolute priority.
A Welcome Change in MotoGP
Reactions to this new rule indicate that it could be seen as a turning point in MotoGP. Riders, although attached to their competitive instincts, seem ready to accept changes that could save lives. “Honestly, I’ve never had the luck of Marc; my bike has always broken when I crashed,” joked Bagnaia, adding a touch of humor to a serious situation.
This measure will undoubtedly not please all riders, but it is necessary to ensure their safety and that of the marshals. In a sport where speed and risk are omnipresent, every decision counts. If this rule helps reduce accidents and ensures better care for riders in difficulty, then it deserves to be praised.
Conclusion: Towards a Safer MotoGP
Ultimately, this new regulation should transform the landscape of MotoGP. Riders will now have to juggle their competitive instincts with the need to preserve their safety and that of others. As the season promises to be full of excitement and twists, it will be interesting to see how this rule influences races and rider behavior on the track. The future of MotoGP may very well depend on this bold measure.
