Invert

An invert in motorsport is a starting grid arrangement where the fastest drivers from qualifying or a previous race are moved to the back, while slower drivers start at the front.

This system completely flips the normal racing order. Instead of the pole position winner starting first, they might start eighth or even last. Meanwhile, drivers who qualified slower get moved up to start near the front of the pack.

Race organizers use inverted grids to create more exciting racing. When fast drivers start at the back, they have to work their way through traffic to reach the front. This means more overtaking, wheel-to-wheel racing, and unpredictable outcomes that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

The invert can be partial or complete. A partial invert might only reverse the top eight qualifiers, leaving everyone else in their original positions. A full invert would flip the entire starting grid from first to last.

Junior racing series like Formula 2, Formula 3, and F1 Academy commonly use inverted grids for their second races of the weekend. The first race follows normal qualifying order, but the second race inverts some or all positions based on those results.

Short track racing in America frequently uses inverts to prevent "sandbagging" - when drivers intentionally qualify slower to get a better starting position. By inverting the grid, the fastest cars still end up at the back where they belong.

NASCAR's All-Star Race has experimented with inverts during race segments, flipping the field partway through the event. This creates dramatic moments as leaders suddenly find themselves at the back of the pack.

While inverted grids add excitement, they're controversial in top-level racing. Some argue they reward slower performance and punish speed. However, in junior categories and touring car racing, inverts remain popular for their ability to showcase driver skill and create unpredictable entertainment.