Does Your FIA Seat With A 5 Year Homologation Have An Extra 2 Years Due To The Covid-19 Pandemic?
We recently had a customer ask if they can get 2 extra years on their FIA bucket seat with a 5 year homologation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The answer? Yes, the FIA granted an extension on the homologation period for certain racing seats and harnesses due to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the FIA added an extra two years to the homologation period for seats that were valid as of 2020. This was done to help teams and competitors who might have faced difficulties in replacing equipment due to supply chain issues and restricted access to suppliers during the pandemic.
For your seat with a 5-year homologation, this extension means that its homologation period is effectively extended to 7 years, provided it was within its validity period in 2020. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your racing organisation or the FIA directly, as they may have additional regulations or clarifications about the use of equipment post-extension
Additionally, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, motorsport UK announced a further one-year extension for certain seats. This applies specifically to seats with a ‘Not Valid After’ date of 2019, allowing them to be used until 31 December 2022.Â
An Important Note
It’s important to know that these extensions apply to the national events under Motorsport UK’s jurisdiction. For international events or competitions governed directly by the FIA, the original five-year homologation period typically applies. Always ensure your seat is in good condition and has not been involved in any serious incidents, as safety should remain the top priority.Â
Understanding FIA Seat Homologation and Expiry Dates
Let’s start with a quick refresher on FIA homologation standards. Typically, FIA homologation is a certification that ensures racing equipment meets stringent safety and quality standards. In the case of racing seats, a homologated seat usually has a 5-year validity period from the date of manufacture. This period ensures that the seat maintains its structural integrity and safety level under intense racing conditions.
Once this period expires, you’re generally required to replace the seat to comply with regulations and maintain optimal safety for the driver. Failure to replace an expired seat could mean your car is non-compliant, which can lead to disqualification from competitions or voided insurance coverage in the event of an incident.
Why This Extension Matters for Racers
This two-year extension has significant benefits for racing teams and drivers. It helps with:
Cost Savings: Racing equipment is a significant investment. Extending the seat’s lifespan means teams can defer expenses for two years, which has been valuable during a time of financial uncertainty.
Reduced Supply Chain Pressure: The pandemic caused disruptions in manufacturing and shipping, making it challenging to source new equipment. This extension allowed racers more time to secure their replacements without the immediate pressure of expired equipment.
Safety Compliance: While some racers might be cautious about using older equipment, the FIA’s approval for this extension means they have deemed it safe for continued use within the extended period. The rigorous standards set by the FIA provide assurance that these seats remain compliant and safe for use.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
If you’re using an FIA seat and are unsure of its expiration status, here are a few steps to help you make sure your equipment is compliant:
- Check the Seat’s Manufacturing Date: Locate the manufacturing label or stamp on your seat to confirm the original 5-year expiration date.
- Calculate the Extended Expiration Date: If your seat was still within its homologation period in 2020, add two years to the original expiry to find the new end date.
- Verify with Race Officials or FIA: While this extension is broadly accepted, it’s always wise to double-check with your racing organisation or local authority to ensure the extension is recognised in your events.
Our Top FIA Bucket Seat Recommendations
These are our most popular FIA homologated fixed-back bucket seats which we stock and display at our showroom ready for viewing and testing in-store for 2025. We keep these seats in their standard black trims ready for immediate dispatch or collection with many other colour variations available on our website. Our extensive selection includes a wide variety of seats designed to suit different racing needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a seat for rallying, track racing, or drift events, we have options that deliver the safety and performance you need. Our range includes both steel and fiberglass-framed FIA bucket seats, catering to different preferences for weight, flexibility, and durability.Â
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From £324.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £235.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Final Thoughts
The FIA’s homologation extension during the COVID-19 pandemic was a thoughtful response to the unique circumstances faced by the racing community. It shows the organisation’s commitment to balancing safety with practical needs, ensuring that racers could continue to participate without facing undue challenges. However, keep in mind that this extension is only temporary and applicable to specific equipment types. As the expiration approaches, it’s crucial to plan for replacements to stay in compliance and maintain the highest level of safety.