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AMA addresses race direction Arlington review process
Confusion surrounds use of red light and red cross signals.
Image: Octopi Media.
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has moved to clarify race direction’s review process following Arlington, addressing confusion surrounding the red cross and red light signal in Monster Energy Supercross 2026.
There was drama in both the 250SX East season-opener and, later, the 450SX main event, however, no penalties were applied post-race.
A thorough investigation saw Pierce Brown (Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing) hold onto his victory, despite jumping through a section under red light signals upon making the race-winning move on previous leader Jo Shimoda (Honda HRC Progressive). Race direction’s review process resulted in the following outcome:
During the race, a warning light, also referred to as the single red lead in light, was displayed in accordance with standard race procedures. When the warning light is shown, riders are alerted of a future obstacle being shut down. However, the presence of the warning light alone does not prohibit riders from executing jumps unless accompanied by additional flag signals or directives indicating otherwise.
After a thorough review by race direction, it has been confirmed that all 250 riders remained in compliance with the rules. Since the warning light was displayed and no supplementary signals were issued to restrict jumping, riders were permitted to maintain race pace and execute jumps through the section. As a result, no penalties have been assessed to any riders in the 250 class regarding this situation.
According to the AMA’s communication, the additional 450SX confusion involving both Cooper Webb (Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing) and Eli Tomac (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was more situational, deemed that both riders were committed to jumping despite the red cross flag being deployed:
A separate situation occurred during the 450 Main Event involving a red cross flag being displayed at the finish line stand. At the time of the incident, no corresponding red lights or red cross flags were illuminated in the section leading into the jump.
Following a comprehensive review, race direction determined there was no blatant violation of the red cross rule. Riders were already committed to the jump without a visible warning light to reasonably signal the restricted condition prior to takeoff.
Given the absence of illuminated red lights and the lack of advanced visual indication before rider commitment, officials concluded that the circumstances did not warrant penalties. As a result, no penalties have been assessed to any riders in the 450 class regarding this situation.
The AMA and its race officials remain committed to consistent rule enforcement, rider safety, and clear communication under all race conditions, and will carefully review our current lights procedure to ensure it continues to provide the highest level of safety and clarity for all participants.
As a result of these scenarios, we’ve identified opportunities for improvement and have adjusted lighting operations and flagging procedures.
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