Safety reached a new level: increased-height debris fence for Formula 1

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has homologated a new, increased-height debris fence designed to provide enhanced protection for Formula 1 and other top-tier motorsport championships. Developed by Swiss company Geobrugg, the 6-metre-high barrier sets a new standard for track safety, particularly in high-risk areas such as high-speed corners, steep elevations, and grandstands exposed to potential flying debris.

Raising the Bar for Circuit Safety

Traditionally, debris fences around racetracks are 3.5 metres tall. However, several circuits, including Suzuka, Bahrain, Monza, Interlagos, and Fuji, already utilize 6-metre fences—though these have not been tested to the highest safety standards. The newly homologated Geobrugg fence is the first of its kind to meet FIA’s rigorous safety criteria, offering circuits a proven, regulated solution.

Under FIA regulations, all new circuits must install homologated safety products. For existing Grade 1 circuits, any damaged or broken fencing must be replaced with an FIA-approved solution. Starting in 2026, this requirement will extend to Grade 2 circuits as well.

A Smarter, Safer Fence

The increased fence height plays a critical role in reducing the risk of debris reaching spectator areas in the event of an accident. Additionally, the fence design incorporates wider cable spacing above the 3-metre mark, optimizing visibility for fans while maintaining structural integrity. This ensures that spectators in grandstands experience minimal visual obstruction without compromising safety.

Our goal has always been to keep spectators, trackside workers, and officials as safe as possible. The increased height of the debris fence represents a major step forward in protecting against flying debris that could otherwise reach grandstands and other vulnerable areas.

Jochen Braunwarth

Director of Motorsport Solutions, Geobrugg

Circuits also have the option to adopt the 6-metre fence as a standard feature, further enhancing protection for those attending race events.

READ MORE: Prioritizing Safety: An Interview with Jochen Braunwarth, Geobrugg’s Director of Motorsport Solutions

Meeting FIA’s Highest Standards

To secure FIA Standard 3502-2018 homologation, the Geobrugg fence underwent extensive testing. This included subjecting it to extreme impact scenarios, such as firing a 780 kg sphere from a sledge at 60 kph and simulating a full-size car crash at 120 kph. The fence successfully contained debris within a strict 3-metre impact zone, demonstrating its superior protective capabilities.

Being close to the action inherently carries some level of risk. This new solution helps mitigate that risk, offering a higher level of protection without compromising the spectator experience.

Jochen Braunwarth

Geobrugg’s Director of Motorsport Solutions

A Global Leader in Motorsport Safety

Geobrugg has been supplying its debris fences to racing circuits worldwide for over a decade and was the first company to have its standard fence homologated by the FIA. Today, its solutions are installed at 18 Formula 1 tracks as well as circuits used in MotoGP, NASCAR, and INDYCAR.

With this latest homologation, motorsport venues now have access to a certified, high-performance fencing solution that enhances safety while preserving the thrill of live racing.