Revolution September 2025 Issue #78 78 | Page 44

Motorsport is an high-adrenalin activity, with inherent risks, but these can be managed to provide a safe, fun, and fair, environment to compete and enjoy our sport

FEATURE

RISKY BUSINESS

Motorsport is an high-adrenalin activity, with inherent risks, but these can be managed to provide a safe, fun, and fair, environment to compete and enjoy our sport
Motorsport can be dangerous. We are reminded of this in the Regulations for each event, on the back of passes and tickets, and by signage around the venues. The thrill of competing against the clock or fellow drivers is all part of the attraction, as is the sensation of speed, and risk, which makes motorsport a global spectacle.
We are drawn in.
And so, we all must take steps to manage this risk. Reduce the danger. This is done on multiple levels and by everyone from participants to organisers. Licenced venues and events must meet the national safety standards, and these include, but are not limited to, the use of evidence-based layout and design, adequate run-off areas combined with suitable crowd protection barriers, use of deceleration devices( chicanes), plus regular and appropriate maintenance schedules, a provision of first aid, paramedics and medical facilities.
Race circuits undergo regular methodical safety inspections, and other venues have a similar rolling programme of their own inspections. This is in addition to the Track Condition inspections which are completed by the Clerk of the Course at every event, and the reports submitted to Motorsport UK. For international circuits, the FIA circuit inspections occur every three years. However, a valid Motorsport UK permit must be in place for any event for these standards to apply. Permitted events must adhere to the content of the Track Licence – which covers the type of activity and vehicles covered, the maximum number of vehicles on course at one time, plus specifies minimum requirements for medical support, safety equipment and more.
Venues that hold permitted events must, among other things:
• Comply with Motorsport UK Regulations
• Be maintained as agreed with Motorsport UK – to remain as inspected
• Marshal posts be staffed appropriately
The Organisation
Motorsport UK Registered Clubs that run events are made up of volunteers whose roles cover multiple aspects of race and event management. Each licenced official is charged with running a safe, fun and fair motorsport event. While the driver has the lead responsibility to ensure safety and to drive within the rules – many of which exist to make motorsport safer – the officials are the next level safety. Events are managed by the Stewards, Clerks and, where appropriate, a Race Director. However, the theme of safety permeates all of Motorsport UKs accredited officials, as the flow chart shows.
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Revolution- September 2025