Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1546504
Mandatory Airbag Systems Coming To MXGP T he FIM and Infront Moto Racing, the sanctioning body and organizer of the FIM Mo- tocross World Championship, announced a new safety rule. At a press meeting held ahead of the MXGP of Turkiye, MXGP announced that airbag systems integrated into chest and back protection will be recommended for the 2027 season and man- datory for 2028. The new rule states that for FIM MXGP/ MX2/ Women's World Championships and FIM Motocross of Nations that from 2027, the use of a functional/operational air- bag system is highly recom- mended. For 2028, the use of a functional/operational airbag system is compulsory. One of the more famous instances of a motocross racer wearing and apparently benefit- ing from an airbag, in this case the Alpinestars Tech-Air MX System, was Justin Barcia's se- vere get-off at the Anaheim I Su- percross in January. Although Barcia was injured in the crash that recorded a peak force of 27.6 G's, he said it could've been much worse if he hadn't been wearing it. "Yes, it abso- lutely did its job," he said. CN WIND IN THE P32 MXGP is making airbag systems mandatory starting in 2028. Justin Barcia probably won't mind. Beta Signs Kelley For 250SX B eta USA has signed Derek Kelley to its new Liqui Moly Beta Race Team in a two-year deal, with the team competing for the first time in the 250SX class next year in AMA Super- cross. "Expanding our program into the 250SX class is a massive milestone for Beta USA, and bringing Derek Kelley on board is the perfect fit to kick off this new chapter," said Carlen Gard- ner, race team manager. "Derek has repeatedly shown the grit, speed and work ethic it takes to compete with the best in the sport. His experience racing at the highest level, paired with his technical feedback, will be vital as we develop and race the RX 250F in Supercross. We are excited to welcome Derek to the Liqui Moly Beta family and can't wait to see what we can accomplish together." Kelley and the team are already testing and prepar- ing for the 2027 Supercross season and say they are ea- ger to take on the challenge of bringing Beta's new 250 program to the gate. "I am thrilled about the opportunity to join the Beta Racing Team for the com- ing years," Kelley said. "The team has built an excep- tional environment where everyone is fully committed. I am also excited to work on the development of the new bike and can't wait to get started." CN Derek Kelley signed a two-year deal with the Liqui Moly Beta Race Team that will make its Supercross debut next year in the 250SX class.