Article C8.3.2
Start lockout period
Technical Regulations
Article C8.3.2
Start lockout period
Chapter: C8
In Simple Terms
After each race start and every pit stop, the car's engine and gearbox are locked down for a brief period where drivers cannot adjust certain power and transmission settings. This is enforced by the FIA's standard control computer to ensure fair competition and prevent drivers from gaining unfair advantages during these critical moments.
- A lockout period activates immediately after race starts and pit stops
- During lockout, power unit and transmission functions are frozen or disabled
- The FIA Standard ECU automatically implements and manages this lockout
- Prevents drivers from making adjustments that could provide unfair competitive advantage
Official FIA Text
The FIA Standard ECU will implement a lockout period after each race start or pit stop during which a number of Power Unit and transmission related functions will be frozen or disabled.
lockout periodrace startpit stoppower unittransmission
2026 Season Regulations