Published on 22 July 2026
Flags on track: what each one means and how you should react
Green, yellow, red, blue... Every flag on track is an instruction, not a suggestion. Here's what each one means and what to do when you see it.
Flags are the safety language of any race track, and understanding them matters just as much as knowing how to brake or find your line. On track there's no reasonable doubt: every flag demands a specific, immediate reaction.
Green flag: track clear
Marks the start of the session or that a previous hazard has been cleared. It's the only flag that requires no extra caution.
Yellow flag: danger on track
Means there's an incident, a stopped bike or oil on the tarmac in that sector. The rule is always the same: slow down, do not overtake, and stay alert until you've passed the danger point. Ignoring a yellow is one of the most serious mistakes you can make on track.
Red flag: session stopped
The session is halted due to a serious incident or weather. Slow down progressively, with no sudden braking that could catch out the rider behind you, and head to the pits along the line marshals indicate.
Blue flag: a faster rider is catching you
Warns that a faster rider is approaching from behind. It doesn't mean braking or suddenly leaving your line — just be predictable and make the pass easy at the next straight or corner where it's safe.
Chequered flag: session over
Marks the end of the track day session. Ease off progressively, with no last-lap heroics, and come into the pits calmly.
Learn the flags before you go out
Every track day or course briefing always covers the circuit's flags. If it's your first time, ask without hesitation — it's the single most important piece of information all day.