UCI updates MTB regulations for 2009

The UCI Management Committee recently approved some new regulations governing next year's off-road racing.

World Cup riders will continue to require 20 UCI points in order to participate, except for those in the junior cross country races. Those same junior riders will compete as part of national teams and be required to wear national team clothing.

The rules clearly dictate details like who must attend the World Cup award ceremonies for each category, start orders and numbering for various disciplines and what kind of clothing gravity riders must wear during training and in competition. Specifically, the UCI has banned the wearing of skin suits for downhill and 4X racing and required a full face helmet to be worn not only in competition, but also in training.

The UCI is also soliciting team registrations, which much be received by February 1, 2009. Complete rosters must be finalized by February 15 for each registered team.

A full listing of 2009 season regulations will be published on the UCI website in December.