Supercross Update: Key Changes and Safety Enhancements for the Upcoming Season
In a strategic move to heighten the competitive nature of races, Feld Motor Sports has announced the elimination of free practice sessions from the overall qualifying structure for the upcoming supercross season. This change aims to ensure that each on-track session has significant implications for riders’ qualifying positions, reducing the likelihood of risky maneuvers when results do not count.
Feld’s Supercross Director, Steve Muye, emphasized the flexibility of the event schedule, stating, “We can adjust the schedule as much as we need to: we have a three-hour broadcast window and that’s what we fit into.” This adaptability is critical for maintaining a seamless viewing experience for fans.
Safety remains a top priority, particularly concerning the whoops sections, which have been a focal point in recent seasons. Muye confirmed that while the current standard features nine whoops per round, plans are in place for several races in 2026 to experiment with varying numbers, including potential configurations with ten or eleven whoops. This initiative aims to balance challenging track designs with rider safety, as the mechanics of these obstacles can significantly influence race outcomes.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing regarding the implementation of in-helmet communications for riders. Although Muye clarified that any potential system would be one-way, preventing riders from responding, this development marks an important step toward enhancing rider safety and situational awareness.
As Feld Motor Sports continues to refine the supercross experience, their commitment to rider safety, broadcasting quality, and competition will remain crucial to the sport’s growth and evolution.
