What flag is shown to signal the end of a Formula One race?

The chequered flag signals the end of a Formula One race. It is displayed or waved at the start-finish line when the scheduled race distance or time has been completed.

The flag is normally a black-and-white checkerboard pattern, although the exact number and size of the squares can vary. In Formula One, the chequered flag is associated with the winner because the leading driver is usually the first competitor to cross the finish line after it is shown.

After seeing the flag and crossing the line, drivers must slow down and return to the pit lane, parc fermé, or another designated area under the sporting regulations. The flag therefore marks both the competitive finish and the transition to post-race procedures.

It is easy to confuse the chequered flag with the red flag, which stops or suspends a session, or the yellow flag, which warns of danger and restricts overtaking. The blue flag instead warns a slower or lapped car about faster traffic.