FLAGS

In kart racing, flags are an essential form of communication between race officials and drivers. They help ensure safety, maintain fairness, and convey important messages during a race. Below is a guide to the different flags you’ll see on the track and what they mean.

Grid Up Flag

Meaning: Drivers must get into their starting positions. When Used: Displayed before the start of the race to signal drivers to form the grid and prepare for the race start.

Green Flag

Meaning: The race has started or restarted. When Used: Waved at the start line or after a caution period to indicate the track is clear and racing can continue.

Yellow Flag

Meaning: Caution—danger on the track. When Used: A single yellow flag indicates a hazard ahead; drivers must slow down and not overtake. A double yellow means the track is blocked, and extreme caution is needed.

Yellow Flag with Red Stripes

Meaning: This flag indicates the track is slippery or other unsafe conditions exist. When Used: Displayed when there is a hazard on the track, such as wet conditions, debris, or other factors that make the track unsafe. Drivers must reduce speed and proceed with caution.

Red Flag

Meaning: The race is stopped. When Used: Used in cases of severe accidents or unsafe conditions. Drivers must slow down and proceed to the designated stopping point.

Blue Flag with Yellow Stripe

Meaning: Faster driver approaching. When Used: Shown to drivers being lapped, instructing them to allow faster racers to pass safely.

Black Flag

Meaning: A penalty for a driver. When Used: Displayed to a specific driver, either rolled up as a warning or fully unfurled, indicating they must exit the track and report to race officials due to a rule violation or mechanical issue.

Black Flag with Orange Circle

Meaning: Mechanical issue. When Used: Informs a driver that their kart has a mechanical problem and they must exit the track immediately.

Halfway Flag

Meaning: Half the race is complete. When Used: Displayed to signal that the race has reached its halfway point.

Two Laps to Go Flag

Meaning: Two laps remain in the race. When Used: Displayed to indicate that there are two laps left before the finish

White Flag

Meaning: One lap remaining. When Used: Shown to the leader when there is one lap left in the race.

Checkered Flag

Meaning: The race is finished. When Used: Waved at the finish line to signal the end of the race.

Race Session Finished & Potential Penalties

Meaning: The race session has concluded, but penalties may apply. When Used: After the checkered flag is waved, race officials may review incidents during the race and apply penalties if necessary. These penalties could include time penalties, disqualifications, or position adjustments.

Understanding these flags is crucial for both new and experienced racers to ensure safety and fair competition on the track. Keep an eye on the flag signals, and race smart!

For a more detailed explanation of the flags, please visit our Rules Page.