- FRHPhe 02 mandatory for international competitions from 2026
- 17 certified road racing helmets and 11 off-road helmets
- A further 38 models in the certification process
Around ten years ago, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme began developing its own homologation program for safety-related products in racing. The aim was to standardize different norms worldwide and ensure a uniformly high level of safety for participants in FIM competitions. In addition to helmets, the program also covers track boundaries, light panels, and special track colors.
Structure of the FIM Racing Homologation Program
The FIM Racing Homologation Program distinguishes between two levels.
Level 1 applies to products for which the FIM has defined its own technical standard and whose tests are carried out under the direct control of the FIM in selected laboratories. These products receive a FIM sticker after successful testing. Helmets, among other things, fall into this category.
Level 2 applies to products with their own FIM standard, some of whose tests can be carried out by the manufacturer. This involves self-certification, whereby the manufacturer confirms compliance with the FIM standard. Here too, a FIM sticker may be affixed.
Homologation is only considered to have been granted once the respective product has fully passed the defined test protocol. The manufacturer is contractually obliged not to make any changes to the product without informing the FIM.
FRHPhe 01 and its introduction in road racing
The first generation of helmets to meet the FIM standard was designated FRHPhe 01. This phase was initially intended exclusively for road racing. The first homologated helmet was used in MotoGP in June 2019, and from January 2020, the standard applied to other circuit disciplines.
A total of 23 manufacturers were involved in this first phase, with 48 helmet models receiving approval. The introduction marked the beginning of a gradual transition of all international road racing series to the FIM standard.
FRHPhe 02 expands requirements and disciplines
In December 2022, the second phase was launched with FRHPhe 02. This version covers almost all disciplines, except for trial, sidecar, and streamliner in land speed world records. For the first time, motocross, enduro, speedway, and cross-country competitions were also comprehensively included.
FRHPhe 02 tightened the test conditions for road helmets and introduced additional tests. While helmets compliant with FRHPhe 01 were still permitted for the last three seasons, this transitional arrangement has now been discontinued. From 2026, only full-face helmets with FRHPhe 02 certification will be permitted in international competitions.
Test procedures and technical differences to ECE 22 06
The prerequisite for FIM homologation is first of all certification according to at least one recognized standard such as ECE 22 06. This is followed by additional tests according to FIM specifications.
While ECE 22 06 specifies impact tests on flat, curb-like, and slanted anvils, the FIM additionally uses a hemispherical anvil and a larger slanted anvil. The latter is specially designed for off-road helmets and is equipped with sandpaper to simulate asphalt abrasion and its influence on rotational forces.
The FIM evaluates both linear and rotational accelerations for all types of impact. For this purpose, an acceleration sensor is mounted in the test head, which records, among other things, the maximum linear and rotational acceleration. In addition, random impact points are tested to check the uniformity of the helmet shell. Accessories are also included, as they can influence the rotational behavior.
Depending on the test results, a helmet can only be homologated in certain sizes or in the entire size range. The approved sizes are published.
Marking and control via QR code
Each homologated helmet has a unique QR code sewn into the chin strap. This code can be used to retrieve all relevant information about the model, homologated sizes, and approved accessories. Only the approved sizes may be used in competition.
If a helmet is modified or fitted with non-approved accessories, the homologation loses its validity. In the event of a fall, the helmet must be checked. If it is marked as damaged or shows significant damage to the shell or EPS inner shell, it must not be used again. In certain cases, the helmet will be confiscated for analysis.
Current status of FRHPhe 02 certifications
The number of homologated models will increase significantly for the 2026 season. Whereas only around 15 references were available in the previous fall, 17 road racing helmets and 11 off-road models are now FRHPhe 02 certified. A further 21 road helmets and 17 off-road helmets are in the certification process.
The latest manufacturers to join the road segment include Shoei with the X SPR Pro 02 and X Fifteen 02 models, Airoh, Alpinestars, Kabuto, and MT Helmets. Fly Racing, Leatt Corporation, and Troy Lee Designs are among those represented in the off-road segment.
Outlook for the 2026 season
The mandatory introduction of FRHPhe 02 marks the end of the transition phase for older FIM helmet generations. Manufacturers had to have their models tested accordingly in order to continue to be represented in international series.
Given the ongoing certification process, the list is likely to grow further by the start of the 2026 season. For riders, this means a wider choice of approved models, provided they meet the new technical requirements.
What this means for motorcyclists
For the typical road rider, the introduction of the FRHPhe 02 standard will not change anything for the time being. Helmets that have been approved to date will remain valid, and there is no obligation to wear a helmet with this specific FIM homologation when riding on public roads.
The new regulation only applies to international competitions under FIM regulations. At the same time, it can be assumed that stricter requirements from racing will have a long-term influence on the development of series helmets for normal road traffic. Helmets with FRHPhe 02 certification may of course also be worn on the road and meet particularly high testing requirements, which may mean an additional level of safety.
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