Why Alonso was denied a holy lap of Madrid with the Pope!

In Simple Terms

The FIA can give teams special permission to do two demonstration events (like parade laps or promotional drives) with their current race car without it counting as a track test. Teams can also do additional demonstration events organized by F1's commercial partner without penalty.

• Teams get two free demonstration events per season that don't count as official testing
• These demonstrations use the current year's car but aren't subject to normal testing restrictions
• Additional demos can be done if organized by the Commercial Rights Holder (F1's commercial operator)
• All demonstrations require explicit FIA approval and discretionary permission