Overtaking During Formation Lap

In Simple Terms

During the formation lap (the lap before the race starts), drivers can only pass another car if that car is going too slowly and blocking the field. When they do overtake, they must pass only to get back to their correct starting position—no gaining extra positions.

• Overtaking is only allowed if a car is delayed and causing obstruction to other cars
• Drivers cannot pass cars just to gain an advantage—only to restore their original grid position
• The rule prevents drivers from making race-deciding moves before the race officially begins
• Unnecessary overtaking during the formation lap can result in penalties