Use of Flags
In many types of auto races, particularly those held on closed courses, flags are displayed to indicate the general status of the track and to communicate instructions to competitors. While individual series have different rules, and the flags have changed from the first years (e.g., red used to start a race), these are generally accepted.
| Flag | Displayed from start tower | Displayed from observation post |
|---|---|---|
| The session has started or resumed after a full course caution or stop. | End of hazardous section of track. | |
| Full course caution condition for ovals. On road courses, it means a local area of caution. Depending on the type of racing, either two yellow flags will be used for a full course caution or a sign with 'SC' (Safety car) will be used as the field follows the pace/safety car on track and no cars may pass. | Local caution condition —no cars may pass at the particular corner where being displayed. When Stationary indicates hazard off-course, when Waving indicates hazard on-course. | |
| Debris, fluid, or other hazard on the track surface. | Debris, fluid, or other hazard on the track surface. | |
| The car with the indicated number must pit for consultation. | The session is halted, all cars on course must return to pit lane. May also be seen combined with a green flag to indicate oil on track, typically referred to as a 'pickle' flag combination. | |
| The car with the indicated number has mechanical trouble and must pit. | ||
| The driver of the car with the indicated number has been penalized for misbehaviour. | ||
| The driver of the car with the indicated number is disqualified or will not be scored until they report to the pits. | ||
| The car should give way to faster traffic. Depending on the series this may be a command or merely advisory. | A car is being advised to give way to faster traffic approaching. | |
| The session is stopped. All cars must halt on the track or return to pit lane. | ||
| Depending on the series, either one lap remains or a slow vehicle is on the track. | A slow vehicle is on the track. | |
| The session has concluded. |
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