Motorsport Australia releases revised concussion protocols

Motorsport Australia has released updated Concussion Guidelines for 2025, which will see drivers sidelined for a minimum of two weeks should they sustain a concussion.

The motorsport governing body released the new protocols on the eve of the 2025 Repco Supercars Championship season opener, the Thrifty Sydney 500 - Opening Round.

In a statement, Motorsport Australia reiterated that, "as with all sports, the understanding of concussion and its long-term effects continues to evolve, and it is essential that safety measures evolve with it."

Additionally, Motorsport Australia said it was "committed to ensuring the wellbeing of everyone involved in the sport by implementing the latest evidence-based concussion protocols."

Motorsport Australia's new protocols have been driven by its dedicated National Medical Advisory Committee (NMAC).

The revisions, first announced in December 2024, have been endorsed by the Motorsport Australia Board following recommendations from NMAC.

Concussion was a talking point at last year's VAILO Adelaide 500, when Richie Stanaway and Jaxon Evans were both ruled out following major impacts at the high-speed Turn 8.

Under the new protocols, there is now a mandatory exclusion period from racing, which is 14 days from the date of the incident for drivers aged 18 or older, and 21 days for drivers under 18.

The statement continues: "The updated guidelines align with globally recognised best practices, incorporating the latest Concussion Recognition Tool (CRT6) and Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT6).

"These tools provide healthcare professionals at motorsport events with the most up-to-date methods for recognising and assessing concussion, ensuring that affected individuals receive the appropriate care and follow-up procedures.

"Motorsport Australia’s NMAC consists of leading medical and industry experts dedicated to enhancing safety in the sport. The revisions were lead by Dr Brent May, an esteemed motorsport trauma specialist, brought invaluable experience as Chief Medical Officer for Formula 1, Medical Advisor to Supercars, and FIA Doctor of the Year 2016.

"His contributions reflect Motorsport Australia’s ongoing commitment to safety, risk mitigation, and governance in motorsport. Dr May was assisted by fellow committee members including Dr Matthew Croxford, Dr Matthew MacPartlin, Dr Jennifer Devine, Mr Greg Gibson, and Dr Karyn Lun, all of whom contributed extensive expertise to improving motorsport medical protocols."

The 2025 Concussion Management Guidelines can be read in full here.

Supercars will return to Sydney Motorsport Park for the opening race of what is set to be the most action-packed season in Supercars history.

Race 1 takes place on Friday night, with Race 2 on Saturday night and Race 3 on Sunday afternoon. Tickets for the February 21-23 event are on sale now.