---
title: "New MotoGP rules introduced for rider protection"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2016/01/08/new-motogp-rules-introduced-rider-protection/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Simon Toyne"
section: "MotoGP News"
published: "2016-01-08T16:16:37Z"
modified: "2016-01-08T16:16:37Z"
---

# New MotoGP rules introduced for rider protection

MotoGP has introduced a comprehensive set of rules governing rider protection for the first time in its history.

Helmets have been compulsory, but the rulebook offered little if no guidance on the leathers, boots, gloves that riders wear.

The new regulations mean there are now benchmark standards for leathers, gloves and boots, and the internal and external armour associated with those products.

The move also makes it compulsory for riders to wear chest protectors and back protectors, and all protective clothing must meet stringent ISO and EN standards.

New powers have also been introduced to race control to prevent riders from wearing kit that is badly damaged or unfit for purpose. This power also applies to the leather manufacturers themselves, so it’s entirely possible we will see the likes of Alpinestars, Dainese, Furygan and Rev ’It insisting their sponsored riders ditch their battle-scarred suits and take to the track in new, pristine leathers.

The manufacturers won’t have it all their own way under the move though – the rules mean they’ll have to keep a database of each suit allocated to a rider so that race control can monitor usage and ensure every rider enjoys maximum protection.

As the rules stand there is no mention of airbag technology, although we expect that to change ahead of the 2017 season.