Pink Flag

A Pink Flag is a specialized racing flag that primarily signals drivers to reduce their speed to 60 km/h (37 mph) in certain FIA-sanctioned motorsport events, where it functions as a "Code 60" warning that prohibits overtaking until officials display a green flag.

Unlike the more universally recognized flags in motorsport—such as the yellow caution flag, red stop flag, or checkered finish flag—the Pink Flag is not standardized across all racing series. This means that drivers competing in different championships need to familiarize themselves with the specific flag regulations for each event they enter. What a pink flag means in one racing series might differ from its meaning in another, or it might not be used at all.

In racing series where the Pink Flag serves as a Code 60 signal, it acts as a safety measure during incidents that require caution but don't necessitate a full safety car deployment or red flag stoppage. When drivers see this flag, they must immediately slow down to the designated speed limit of 60 kilometers per hour. This controlled slowdown helps marshals safely clear debris, attend to minor incidents, or address track conditions without bringing the entire race to a halt.

The no-overtaking rule that accompanies the Pink Flag is crucial for maintaining fair competition. Since all drivers must reduce to the same speed, allowing passes during this period would give some competitors an unfair advantage. Drivers must maintain their positions until track officials wave a green flag, which signals that normal racing conditions have resumed and competitors can return to full speed.

Some racing organizations may use a pink-colored flag to warn drivers about slippery track surfaces ahead, though this application is less common. Typically, a red and yellow striped flag serves this purpose, alerting drivers to reduced traction caused by oil spills, coolant leaks, gravel, or other hazardous materials on the racing surface. If a Pink Flag is used for this purpose in a particular series, drivers would need to exercise extra caution and adjust their racing line accordingly.

Racing flags serve as the primary communication method between track officials and drivers during competition. Since drivers are traveling at high speeds with limited ability to receive verbal instructions, these visual signals must be instantly recognizable and universally understood within each racing series. Any confusion about flag meanings could lead to dangerous situations on track.

Before competing in any motorsport event, drivers attend mandatory briefings where officials explain the specific flag signals used in that particular series. This ensures everyone understands what each flag means and how to respond appropriately. For spectators learning about motorsport, understanding that flag meanings can vary between racing organizations helps explain why the Pink Flag might appear in some races but not others.