The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has announced several rule changes affecting motocross competition. As an AMA-sanctioned series, MSC AMA District 34 will implement and enforce the following updates.

Mandatory Chest & Back Protection – Effective 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026:

It is mandatory that chest and back protection be worn by all competitors.

The protector:

• May be worn under or over the jersey

• Must cover the sternum

• Must cover the anterior ribs

• Must cover the posterior ribs

• Must protect the spine from T1 to T12

Riders without proper protection will not be permitted on track.

Competition Rule Updates – Effective 2026

Yellow Flag

Yellow flag violations will result in a 5-position penalty.

Red Cross Flag

Red Cross flag violations will now follow language similar to the yellow flag rule (no longer based on “wheels on the ground”).
Penalty for violations will be 10 positions.

Minibike Classes

The wheelbase maximum has been eliminated.

Schoolboy 2

250cc 2-strokes are now allowed in Schoolboy 2.

Limited Class & Displacement Violations

First-time violations of Limited class and displacement rules will result in suspension.

Youth Waiver Enforcement – Effective 2025 (Still In Effect)

The previously implemented Youth Waiver rules and enforcement procedures (effective 2025) remain in full effect for the 2026 season.

All youth participants must:

• Have properly completed AMA youth waivers

• Meet all parental/guardian signature requirements

• Comply with all existing AMA youth participation policies

For full instructions on minor waivers and how to complete them, please visit:

👉 MSC Minor Waiver Directions

There are no changes to this policy for 2026.

Age Change – Effective 2027

Beginning in 2027, the minimum age for an Amateur rider will increase from 12 to 14 years old.

These updates reflect the AMA’s continued focus on safety, consistency, and accountability across all sanctioned competition.

For questions regarding compliance at MSC events or to clarify any rules, please contact MSC AMA District 34.