FIM helmet homologation rules delayed until June

The Grand Prix Commission has postponed the mandatory use of FIM homologated helmets for all riders until June to allow time for the “large number of late requests” by helmet manufacturers.

Last year the FIM confirmed all riders must use homologated and checked helmets at all top-level motorcycle racing from 2019 but the new rule has been delayed until June to give the governing body time to test and homologate new helmet entries.

As a result, Grand Prix (MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3) and World Superbike riders can use ECE, Snell, JIS and FRHPhe-01 helmets until June 2 2019, with the new regulations commencing the day after.

For 2019 all other FIM-run championships will be able to use the same options before coming in line with the new rules from 2020. FIM’s second stage of homologating helmet has also been delayed.

“No assurance is given that a helmet will be homologated for the 2019 season unless it reaches the laboratory, with the necessary paperwork approved, before the end of February,” an FIM statement read.

“The timeline and the thresholds concerning the second phase of the FIM Racing Homologation Programme for helmets (FRHPhe-02) are put on hold until the next meeting with helmet manufacturers is organised, tentatively mid-2019.”