Warm up Laps

Warm up laps are slow-speed laps that drivers complete before a race officially begins, designed to prepare both the car and driver for optimal racing performance.

The main purpose of warm up laps is to heat up the car's tires and brakes to their ideal operating temperature. Cold tires provide much less grip on the track, making the car dangerous to drive at racing speeds. During these laps, you'll often see drivers weaving left and right - this isn't showboating, but a technique to generate friction and warm the tire rubber.

These preparation laps also serve as a final systems check. Drivers test their brakes, steering, throttle response, and other critical components to ensure everything works properly before the green flag drops. It's their last chance to identify any mechanical issues that could cause problems during the race.

Warm up laps allow drivers to assess current track conditions, which can change dramatically from practice sessions due to weather, temperature, or debris. This information helps them adjust their racing strategy and driving style for the specific conditions they'll face.

The procedure typically involves all cars lining up in their qualifying positions on the starting grid. They then follow a controlled pace around the track, usually led by the pole position car or a pace vehicle. Overtaking is generally prohibited during formation laps to maintain grid order and safety.

Different racing series use various names for this procedure. Formula 1 calls them "formation laps," while NASCAR refers to them as "pace laps." MotoGP and other motorcycle series specifically use the term "warm up lap."

Cars that experience problems during warm up laps may be required to start from the pit lane or the back of the grid, depending on the series' specific regulations. This ensures all functioning vehicles can complete the preparation process safely.