Motorsport UK clarifies certification rules for customised racewear

Motorsport UK has issued guidance on customised FIA 8856-2018 racewear after receiving enquiries about garments carrying transfers or printing.

The governing body says printing or transfers on those garments must be applied by the garment manufacturer and supported by a Customisation Certificate from that manufacturer. It says the certificate confirms that the modified garment continues to meet the FIA standard.

Motorsport UK says a garment’s previous acceptance does not remove the certificate requirement where one is needed. Where a competitor was unaware of the rule, it advises officials to explain the position and allow time to seek the documentation.

The guidance also says doubts about a modification or certificate should be referred to the Technical Department, and that competitors should retain certificates with their racewear for presentation when asked.

What this means for Wales

Welsh competitors who race under Motorsport UK’s national rules may need to check whether customised FIA 8856-2018 clothing has the required documentation. The guidance does not announce a Wales-specific rule or deadline.

In other Motorsport UK news they have clarified how it treats ‘Not Valid After’ dates printed on competitors’ personal protective equipment, particularly flame-resistant overalls.

The organisation says National Competition Rule Chapter 9, Article 4.3 requires overalls to carry an acceptable standard and be in satisfactory condition. It says the rule does not itself require a garment to be withdrawn simply because the date on its label has passed.

Where a label has a ‘Not Valid After’ date, Motorsport UK says it should not be read as an additional eligibility requirement unless a championship’s own regulations specifically require it.

What this means for Wales

Welsh competitors racing under Motorsport UK rules can check the regulations for their own championship rather than relying on the label date alone. This guidance does not remove the requirement for acceptable-standard equipment in satisfactory condition.