Is Fireproof Underwear Mandatory in FIA & MSA Events, or Just Recommended?
A common question we get from customers is whether fireproof racing underwear is mandatory for FIA and MSA events or just recommended. This gear—typically including a long-sleeve top, leggings, socks, and a balaclava—adds an extra layer of flame-resistant protection under a race suit, helping prevent serious burns in the event of a fire.
The rules vary depending on the event type and governing body. FIA events have strict safety regulations, making fireproof underwear mandatory in most disciplines. Motorsport UK (MSA) events, however, differ across categories—some require it, while others only recommend it.
For our customer competing in CSCC Classic Sports Car events, it’s essential to check the specific regulations. In this blog, we’ll clarify when fireproof underwear is required or optional, explain its safety benefits, and provide a detailed table of FIA and MSA event requirements.
Breaking Down the Fireproof Underwear Requirement
Fireproof racing underwear, including long-sleeve tops, leggings, socks, and balaclavas, is designed to provide an additional layer of flame-resistant protection underneath a driver’s race suit. It is manufactured from Nomex or similar FIA-approved materials that can withstand extreme heat in case of a fire, significantly improving driver safety.
The requirement for fireproof underwear depends on whether the event falls under FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) regulations or MSA (Motorsport UK, formerly the MSA) regulations. While FIA-sanctioned competitions almost always require fireproof underwear, certain Motorsport UK events only recommend it rather than making it a strict requirement.
For our customer competing in CSCC (Classic Sports Car Club) Classic Sports events, it’s important to check whether fireproof underwear is explicitly required or simply advised for additional protection. Below, we provide a detailed table showing whether fireproof underwear is mandatory or optional for various racing disciplines.
Fireproof Underwear Requirements for FIA and MSA Events
To make it easy to understand, here’s a breakdown of the mandatory requirements for fireproof racing underwear in FIA and MSA-sanctioned events:
| Event Type | Governing Body | Fireproof Underwear Required? |
| FIA Formula Racing | FIA | Mandatory |
| FIA GT & Endurance Racing | FIA | Mandatory |
| FIA Touring Car Racing | FIA | Mandatory |
| FIA Rally Competitions | FIA | Mandatory |
| FIA Hill Climb Events | FIA | Mandatory |
| FIA Karting (Certain Classes) | FIA | Mandatory for some classes |
| Motorsport UK Circuit Racing | MSA | Mandatory |
| Motorsport UK Rallying | MSA | Mandatory |
| Motorsport UK Sprint & Hill Climb | MSA | Recommended but not required |
| CSCC Classic Sports Events | MSA | Recommended but not required |
| Time Attack UK | MSA | Recommended but not required |
For CSCC Classic Sports events, fireproof underwear is not a mandatory requirement, but it is strongly recommended for safety. FIA events, on the other hand, enforce stricter regulations where underwear must be FIA-approved and worn underneath a homologated race suit.
Why You Should Wear Fireproof Underwear Even If It’s Not Mandatory
Even in events where fireproof underwear is not required, many professional drivers still choose to wear it for added safety. Here’s why:
- Increased Protection: In the event of a fire, fireproof underwear provides crucial seconds for drivers to escape before suffering severe burns.
- Better Heat Resistance: It helps wick away sweat and provides comfort by regulating body temperature under heavy race suits.
- FIA-Approved Safety Standards: Many high-performance racing underwear sets are FIA 8856-2018 approved, meaning they meet the highest safety standards.
- Motorsport UK Recommendations: Motorsport UK strongly advises wearing fireproof underwear in events where it’s not mandatory, as an extra layer of protection is always beneficial.
While our customer isn’t required to wear fireproof underwear for CSCC Classic Sports events, we always recommend it for maximum safety and peace of mind on the track.
Choosing the Right Fireproof Underwear for Your Race
If you’re looking to invest in high-quality FIA-approved fireproof underwear, we stock a wide range of top brands known for their durability, comfort, and compliance with motorsport regulations. Some of our recommended fireproof underwear includes:
- OMP First Underwear Set (Top, Bottoms, Socks, Balaclava)
- Sparco RW-4 Nomex Racing Underwear Range
- Alpinestars Race V3 Racing Underwear Collection
Each of these options meets FIA 8856-2018 standards, ensuring you get the highest level of protection.
Explore Our Range of FIA-Approved Fireproof Racing Underwear
To ensure you’re fully equipped for your next race, we offer a wide selection of FIA-approved fireproof racing underwear from top motorsport brands, including Sparco, OMP, Alpinestars, and Walero. Each brand provides a variety of racing tops, bottoms, socks, and balaclavas, all designed to meet FIA safety standards.
Available in black and white colour options, these fireproof garments are made from lightweight, breathable materials to offer maximum comfort, protection, and heat resistance during competitive racing. Whether you need a full set or individual pieces, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your needs.
Final Thoughts: Should You Wear Fireproof Underwear?
If you’re competing in FIA events, fireproof underwear is mandatory and must be FIA-approved. For Motorsport UK events, it is required for certain disciplines but only recommended in others, including CSCC Classic Sports events. Even when not required, we highly recommend wearing it for added safety, comfort, and peace of mind on track days.
If you need help choosing the best fireproof racing underwear for your next event, check out our full range of FIA-approved racewear or contact us for expert advice. Stay safe and race with confidence!
