Yellow flag

Sergio Perez of Mexico driving the (11) Red Bull Racing RB16B Honda in the Pitlane during a yellow flag period during the 2021 F1 Grand Prix of Portugal

In Formula 1, the yellow flag indicates a warning to drivers that there is a hazard on the track. The flag is waved by marshals stationed around the circuit to alert drivers to slow down and be prepared to take evasive action.

The yellow flag can be displayed for various reasons, including debris on the track, a car that has spun off, or an incident that requires marshals to be on the track. Drivers are expected to slow down significantly when they see the yellow flag and not overtake any other cars until they pass a green flag, which indicates that it is safe to resume racing speed.

The use of the yellow flag is an important safety measure in Formula 1. It helps to reduce the speed of the cars when there is a danger on the track, giving drivers more time to react and avoid accidents. The flag also alerts drivers to the presence of marshals on the track, who may be assisting a driver or clearing debris.

If a driver fails to slow down sufficiently when they see the yellow flag, they may receive a penalty from the race stewards. This can range from a warning to a time penalty or even disqualification from the race, depending on the severity of the offence.

There are different variations of the yellow flag used in Formula 1. The single yellow flag is used to warn drivers of a hazard in a specific section of the track. The double yellow flag indicates a more serious hazard and requires drivers to slow down even further. The red and yellow striped flag is used to indicate a slippery surface on the track, such as oil or water.

The yellow flag is an essential safety tool in Formula 1 that helps to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of drivers, marshals, and spectators. It is important for drivers to understand the different variations of the yellow flag and to obey the rules surrounding its use.