NASCAR utilizes nine different flags to alert race drivers of various situations on the track during a race. Each flag is unique and easily recognizable by drivers and fans alike. The meaning of some NASCAR flags, such as the checkered flag, are well-known, but the meanings of some of the other flags are somewhat obscure.
Black Flag, Black Flag with a White Cross
A black flag waved at a specific car warns the driver to pit immediately because he has violated a rule or because his car has a problem. Drivers that fail to pit after receiving a black flag are shown a black flag with a white cross to notify the driver that he will not be scored until he pits.
Blue Flag with a Yellow Stripe
A driver is being alerted that faster cars are approaching when he sees a blue flag with a yellow stripe.
Checkered Flag
The race has ended when the flagman waves the checkered flag.
Green Flag
The green flag starts a race, waves to restart the race after a caution or stoppage and continues to wave as the race proceeds.
Red Flag
The flagman waves a red flag for various reasons, but all have the same result: The race is stopped. Among the reasons for a red flag are an unsafe track; a blocked track; too much precipitation; and a crash resulting in an injured driver that must have medical attention.
Yellow Flag, Yellow Flag with Red Vertical Stripes
A yellow flag signals to drivers to slow down because an accident has occurred or the track is not clear because of debris. You'll see a yellow flag with red vertical stripes on road courses; it alerts drivers to be cautious of dangerous road conditions ahead.
White Flag
A white flag signals the last lap of a race.
Tags: black flag, Flag with, flag with, Black Flag, checkered flag
