F1 formation lap explained: What does a formation lap mean in Formula 1?

In Formula 1, even the most minor things, like the lap before the race begins can have a major impact. What is a formation lap and why is it important?

The start of every F1 race follows a set pattern, but there’s more to it than just getting to the starting line and racing off.

First, all the cars need to head to the grid and line up in the order in which they qualified for the race.

On a Formula 1 broadcast, that process is usually referred to as the formation lap but it is sometimes called a warm-up or parade lap.

F1 explained: What does a formation lap mean in Formula 1?

Why not just line the cars up and let them race without first going around? It’s all about getting ready for the race.

You will see the drivers and their crews on the start-finish straight prepping the car for the race, but during that process, the tires cool down. The formation lap allows drivers to warm the tires back up.

Warmer tires have better grip than cold ones. Having warm tires can be essential to getting a good start. That’s why drivers often weave back-and-forth or do quick acceleration and braking at times during the formation lap. They are trying to put some heat into their tires.

LEARN MORE: How does qualifying work in F1?

As the cars take off for the formation lap, the crews rush back to their pitwalls and boxes, leaving the straight free for the cars to lineup again in order.

Once each car from front to back is in the appropriate spot, the lights will come on and the countdown to the race can begin.

The entire formation lap process usually happens fairly quickly, so don’t look away for too long. The race is literally about to begin.