Formation lap

The formation lap is the slow lap every F1 car completes immediately before a race start, leaving the grid in qualifying order and returning to the same slots to line up for the real start. Its main job is warming tyres and brakes to their working temperature range, which is why cars visibly weave side to side during it, scrubbing heat into the rubber before it goes cold again on the grid. It doubles as a final safety check, confirming track conditions and car readiness before the field commits to a standing start. Overtaking isn't allowed during the lap itself: a driver who loses a position through a slow getaway is entitled to have it back before the field reaches the first corner. Full breakdown at F1 Fansite.