This is why F1 waves two chequered flags to end it...

In System 1, the black and white chequered flag marks the tip of a race and the motive force who’s waved off first with it’s the winner. However what does it imply when, as seen a number of instances over the 2025 F1 season, two chequered flags are waved on the conclusion of a grand prix? 

This isn’t a joke, attentive viewers of this yr’s F1 race finishes might have observed that at some grands prix, there have been certainly two black and white chequered flags waving. In Suzuka, for instance, but additionally in Miami and this weekend at Barcelona, two chequered flags have been waved to ring ultimately of the race. Nevertheless, simply considered one of them is the official flag. 

“The primary flag is all the time the official chequered flag bearing the FIA emblem,” defined a spokesperson for the FIA, motorsport’s governing physique. “It alerts the tip of the race.” 

The second flag, waved from the pit wall, has no regulatory operate. It’s purely a System 1 advertising and marketing stunt, prominently staged for the cameras. 

On the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, as an illustration, skilled footballer Robert Lewandowski had the honour of waving it. 

“The idea is much like a ceremonial kickoff as recognized from different sports activities, the place friends carry out a symbolic act to mark the beginning of the occasion,” added the FIA spokesperson. 

So, what precisely is that this second chequered flag about? 

“It options the names of followers who can buy an area on the flag to change into a part of the game’s historical past,” the FIA consultant mentioned. 

But it surely doesn’t come low cost. F1 Authentics sells the person flag panels at numerous worth factors. The vary is large: getting your identify on the Hungarian GP flag prices €241.95, whereas a spot on the Las Vegas flag goes for €665.95. 

No less than there’s extra to it than simply having your identify on a flag.  

“After the race, followers obtain a framed memento that features a picture of the flag being waved in entrance of the successful automobile, together with the unique cut-out panel of the flag bearing their identify and a certificates of authenticity,” the spokesperson added. 

So sure, it’s a actual chequered flag. Simply not the chequered flag that formally ends a System 1 race.