National Young Rider Day 2026 is shining a spotlight on the growing number of young people using motorcycles and scooters for gig economy work, while also marking the launch of a new campaign ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

As part of the initiative, 500 high-visibility vests have been produced for distribution to gig riders in city and town centres across the UK. The vests are intended to improve rider visibility and encourage safer riding practices among those working in fast-paced urban environments.
Organised by the National Young Rider Forum (NYRF), National Young Rider Day takes place today (9 June) and aims to celebrate young riders while promoting safer riding habits.

It comes at an important time, with recently released figures showing 384 riders were killed on Great Britain’s roads in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 13%.

The campaign recognises the increasing role that motorcycles and scooters play in the gig economy, providing flexible employment opportunities for many young people. However, riders can face unique challenges, including time pressures, busy traffic conditions and long working hours.

To help address these risks, the campaign is promoting a series of key safety messages for gig riders:
• Reduce speed and ride defensively, especially in busy urban areas.
• Do not let time pressure or app incentives push you into unsafe riding.
• Take regular breaks and avoid riding when tired or fatigued.
• Avoid using your phone while moving – stop safely before checking an app.
• Check your bike before every shift, including lights, brakes and tyres.
• Wear appropriate protective and high-visibility equipment at all times.

Organisers are encouraging employers, delivery companies, road safety professionals and partner organisations to share these messages and support riders throughout the day.

They are also signposting riders to the Scottish Occupational Road Safety Alliance (ScORSA) website for more information on how to stay safe as a GIG rider.

Click here for ScORCA Risk Toolkit

National Young Rider Day will also see the launch of a new campaign linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Running throughout the tournament, the campaign will use social media platforms to engage young riders with important road safety messages.
The World Cup campaign will focus on a range of issues affecting rider safety, including the dangers of riding while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Particular attention will be given to raising awareness that impairment can still affect riders the morning after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

The campaign will be delivered through TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X, with young riders encouraged to follow the channels and share the content throughout the tournament.

Finally, organisers are also hosting a free-to-attend online event on 30 June from 6pm to 6.40pm.

Delivered in partnership with Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership, the session is designed to support young riders on all aspects of riding, providing practical advice and guidance to help them stay safe on the roads.  Click here to register

Heidi Duffy MBE, facilitator of the NYRF, said: “Young riders ride motorbikes for many reasons, and we want to help them enjoy it safely. National Young Rider Day is an opportunity to highlight the challenges riders face, share practical advice, and engage with young people through the channels they use every day. By combining targeted campaigns, free resources and expert support, we’re helping riders build skills, confidence and safer habits for life. The NYRF would like to thank its partners, including The Road Safety Trust, for their continued support.”

Jim Freeman, Chair of the BMF said: “Young riders are among the most vulnerable of road users and looking after their safety is of the utmost importance. Powered two wheelers (PTWs) provide real opportunities for young people, whether they ride for leisure, education, or work. Ensuring that they have the best training and support from the beginning of their journey into motorcycling, and as they progress to larger bikes, is vital to keep them safe. The BMF will continue to put pressure on government to deliver better training for young riders as part of the proposed reform of the current training and licensing regime. We also want to see employers in the gig economy taking more responsibility for their riders; ensuring they have the correct training, protective equipment and high-visibility clothing, and the necessary support from their employers to ensure they can work safely without undue time pressures.”

National Young Rider Day was established in 2023 by the National Young Rider Forum and provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges facing young riders while celebrating the benefits that motorcycles and scooters can offer for transport, employment and independence

For more information, please contact Heidi Duffy, National Young Rider Forum facilitator, at: heidi.duffy@viaem.co.uk

All images courtesy of NYRF