F1 Flags Meaning:
Yellow, Red, Blue & More
Marshals use colored flags (and digital lights) to communicate with drivers. Here is what every color means.
Yellow Flag
Danger Ahead. Slow Down.
Single Yellow: Hazard beside the track. Slow down.
Double Yellow: Hazard blocking the track. Be prepared to stop. No overtaking allowed.
Red Flag
Session Stopped.
The race is suspended due to a serious accident or bad weather. All cars must return to the pit lane immediately.
Blue Flag
Let the Faster Car Pass.
Shown to a slower car that is about to be "lapped" by the race leader. They must move out of the way.
Green Flag
Track Clear.
The hazard has been cleared. Racing can resume.
Chequered Flag
Race Over.
Waved at the finish line to signal the end of the race or session.
Black Flag
Disqualified.
Shown with a car number. That driver has been disqualified for a serious rule breach and must return to the pits immediately.
Black & Orange Circle
Mechanical Problem.
"The Meatball Flag". The car has dangerous damage (e.g., a loose wing). The driver must pit immediately to fix it.
White Flag
Slow Car Ahead.
Warns drivers that there is a much slower vehicle ahead (e.g., a race car with an engine problem, or a medical car).
Black & White Flag
Unsportsmanlike Behavior Warning.
A warning for bad driving standards (e.g., weaving on straights or track limits). If the driver does it again, they will get a penalty.
Yellow & Red Stripes
Slippery Surface.
Warns drivers that the track surface is slippery ahead, usually due to oil, water, or loose debris.
Common Questions About Flags
Do flags apply everywhere on the track?
Yellow flags are usually localized to a specific "sector" (Sector 1, 2, or 3) or a mini-sector. Drivers only need to slow down in that specific zone. However, a Safety Car or Red Flag applies to the entire track instantly.