Blue flags are used to tell slower cars to move aside when a faster car is coming — especially if they’re about to be lapped.
What does a blue flag mean?
A driver must let a faster car through. Usually shown to lapped cars when a leader is approaching.
Who gets shown blue flags?
- Backmarkers (lapped cars)
- Slower cars being caught by leaders
- Sometimes during qualifying if you’re impeding someone on a hot lap
How quickly must a driver move over?
Drivers have 3 blue flag panels or 3 marshal sectors to let the faster car by. Fail to do it = time penalty.
Can lapped cars unlap themselves?
Yes — under the Safety Car, the FIA may allow lapped cars to unlap and rejoin the back of the pack.
In normal racing, it’s rare — but possible with pace or pit stop timing.
What if a lapped car ignores blue flags?
That’s a penalizable offense. Usually:
- 5-second time penalty
- Penalty points on the driver’s license
- Possible team fines
Why do blue flags exist?
To avoid backmarkers interfering with battles at the front. It keeps the race fair and flowing — especially on tight circuits.
