MotoAmerica 101

Track Flags and Lights

In MotoAmerica, as in most forms of motorsports racing, a system of flags and lights is utilized by Race Control to inform the riders of specific situations on the track.  There are 10 individual flags/lights used by MotoAmerica, which are described below:

GREEN

Start of race or clear track conditions.  End of no overtaking zone after a yellow.  Green lights are also used.

CHECKERED

End of race, practice, or qualifying session. 

WHITE

Final lap of race.  Showed at the start line only.

YELLOW

Stationary: Potentially hazardous situation beside the track where the flag is displayed.  Proceed with caution.  No passing allowed until the next green flag.  Yellow lights are also used.  

Waving: Serious hazardous situation on track where the flag is displayed.  Proceed with caution.  No passing allowed until the next green flag.  Flashing yellow lights could also be used. 

BLUE

Indicates to a rider that they are about to be overtaken or lapped.  These riders must allow the overtaking rider(s) to safely pass at the earliest opportunity. 

BLACK

With a rider’s number on a board.  Rider must enter pit lane on the next lap due to a non-safety-related technical issue or a penalty.  During a race, this indicates disqualification.  

BLACK W/ORANGE CIRCLE (“MEATBALL”)

With a rider’s number on a board.  Rider needs to exit race track immediately due to a safety issue, such as leaking fluid, loose parts, etc. 

NOTE: The black flag and “meatball” flag are always used with number boards.

RED

When displayed on track, indicates that the session is ended prematurely and all riders must slow and go to the pits.  Also indicates pit-lane exit is closed when displayed at pit-out.  Red lights could also be used. 

WHITE WITH DIAGONAL RED CROSS (RAIN FLAG)

Indicates that rain has started to fall in the section of track where the flag is displayed.

 

YELLOW WITH RED STRIPES

Indicates a lack of grip in that section of the track (caused by debris, fluid, or other contamination) where the flag is displayed.  When shown together with the Rain Flag (White w/Diagonal Red Cross), it indicates that the rain is also affecting surface grip in that section of the track.