Red flag rules changed.

The Grand Prix Commission, composed of Messrs. Carmelo Ezpeleta (Dorna, Chairman), Claude Danis (FIM), Sito Pons (IRTA) and Takanao Tsubouchi (MSMA), has unanimously decided to introduce the following modifications to the sporting, technical and medical regulations.

The changes (shown in bold) to the sporting regulations will end the type of controversial situation seen in last year's 125cc Japanese Grand Prix, when future world champion Thomas Luthi was able to claim second place despite causing the race to be stopped.

Luthi had crashed out, and was then hit by Sergio Gadea, while holding second position behind title rival Mika Kallio with 15 laps completed. The previous rules stated that the race result would be determined by the order at the end of the previous lap, meaning that Luthi was able to keep second despite his race-stopping accident.

The podium ceremony (pictured) would take place without Luthi, since he was being examined in the medical centre.

"I think the sport needs to clarify this rule, which states that the race result will be declared as per the positions on the previously completed lap," fumed Red Bull KTM team boss Harald Bartol after the race. "Obviously there could be a situation where the world championship could be decided in favour of a rider, and not just a KTM rider, because of this rule."

The full regulation changes can be seen below:

Sporting Regulations

1.25 Interruption of a race

1.25.1 (add this new paragraph at the end of the article)
At the time the red flag is displayed, riders who are not actively competing in the race will not be classified.

Within 5 minutes after the red flag has been displayed, riders who have not entered the pit lane, riding on their motorcycle, will not be classified.

Technical Regulations

2.11.7 Helmets must be of the full face type and conform to one of the recognised international standards:

1. Europe ECE 22-04 & ECE 22-05 'P'
o Japan JIS T 8133 : 2000
USA SNELL M 2005

Medical Regulations

5.3.1.1 Licence for Chief Medical Officer (CMO)

All Chief Medical Officers (CMO) and Deputy Chief Medical Officers must be licensed. The licence will be valid for three years and will be issued by the FIM.

5.3.1.2 Criteria and Procedure for obtaining a CMO licence

Prospective candidates should apply in writing through their FMN to the FIM including their professional and motorsport CV and evidence that the below criteria has been fulfilled:

o Be a fully registered and appropriately qualified medical practitioner

o be experienced in the provision of Emergency Medical Care

o be experienced at motorcycle events and must have attended at least five National Events as CMO or Deputy CMO with confirmation by their FMN

o Have attended and successfully completed a FIM CMO Seminar and participated in at least one FIM event within the previous 2 years.