The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) is delighted to announce a package of new initiatives for 2026 that are directly aimed at supporting motocross clubs, organisers and riders as part of its mission to produce the next British world motocross champion.
Grass roots motorcycle sport is firmly at the heart of ACU activity. As the official and sole governing body of motorcycle sport in the UK, the ACU is fully committed in its effort to support British motocross at all levels and the changes that are set to be introduced are designed to make competing with the ACU more appealing and accessible than ever before.
The initiatives are:
- Introduction of a £5 practice licence for youth and adult riders
- Introduction of a £10 one-event race licence for youth and adult competitors
- Basic one-day and two-day insurance permits for event organisers
- Introduction of club practice day permits which include insurance
The ACU’s vision is to actively support the continued growth of motocross from the ground up, by continuing to invest in the discipline. This allows all riders to be supported, the domestic racing scene to be strengthened, and to create a clear path towards European and World Championship competition.
Building a solid and long-lasting structure for motocross is only made possible through the loyalty of ACU organisers and licence holders, whose efforts directly support the future of British motorcycle sport.
Tim Lightfoot, ACU President, said: “Motocross is a cornerstone of the ACU, so it’s vitally important we continue to support the discipline today and into the future. These new initiatives will help to give every rider – from a youth competitor just starting out to an elite rider targeting world championship success – the best possible environment in which to progress and be successful.
“When riders compete with the ACU, they are part of a family that looks after them. From making sure organisers and officials receive unrivalled training and support, to providing the right event and personal accident insurance should something go wrong, the ACU stands by its licence holders.”
The ACU’s new approach in 2026 will also give clubs the tools and support they need to continue delivering well-run, safe and exciting motocross events in 2026.
Matthew Edwards-Wear, ACU Chief Executive, said: “By giving organisers more flexibility in terms of event insurance options, simplifying administration, and introducing practice day permits, we believe we’re making it easier for competitors to ride with the ACU and for organisers to accommodate them.
“When you couple these new initiatives with the support we already provide to organisers through the availability of great Insurance and legally-backed Health and Safety guidance, first-class training and support for those trackside, and top-level public liability insurance, 2026 will mark the beginning of a positive new era for ACU motocross.”