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Parc Fermé
Track Terminology
Parc Ferme is a restricted area where race cars are held under strict supervision between qualifying and the race to prevent teams from making unauthorized modifications.
In Formula 1 and other motorsports, once qualifying ends, cars enter Parc Ferme conditions where only minor adjustments like tire changes and basic maintenance are permitted. This ensures all vehicles remain in essentially the same specification they qualified with, maintaining competitive fairness.
Breaking Parc Ferme rules—for example, by changing suspension settings or replacing major components—typically results in penalties such as starting from the pit lane. Exceptions may be granted for safety reasons or significant weather changes between qualifying and race day.