How does the Safety Car work?

Neutralising the race

The Safety Car may be deployed when drivers or intervention personnel need protection. Cars slow down and form a queue behind it, following officials’ instructions. Overtaking is generally prohibited, with exceptions defined in the regulations.

Time gaps can shrink

Bunching up the field can erase part of an advantage built on track. A pit stop can also cost relatively less time than under normal conditions, because cars on the circuit are moving slowly. The effect depends on position and timing.

Restarting the race

The withdrawal procedure is officially announced. The leading driver controls the pace within the rules, and the point at which overtaking becomes permitted must be respected. A good restart also requires prepared tyres and brakes.