Article B5.6.3

Practice Starts Forbidden During Formation Lap

Sporting Regulations

Article B5.6.3

FIA Source

Practice Starts Forbidden During Formation Lap

Chapter: B5

In Simple Terms

During the formation lap (the lap before the race start), drivers cannot practice their starting technique or test their car's launch control. All cars must stay tightly bunched together as a group to maintain an orderly formation heading to the grid.

  • No practice starts allowed during the formation lap
  • Cars must maintain a tight, compact formation
  • This rule applies specifically to the lap before the race begins
  • Prevents disruption and maintains safety and fairness before the race start
Official FIA Text

During the formation lap practice starts are forbidden and the formation must be kept as tight as possible.

formation lappractice startsrace startgrid formationf1 rules
2026 Season Regulations

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