Go-Kart Racing Flags: A Quick Guide

Every racer needs to know about the different racing flag colors and what they mean. In go-karting, track marshals wave seven different types of flags. These flags signal to all racers what the current situation on the track is.

Here are the seven go-kart racing flag meanings you should be familiar with.

1. Green

The green flag means that it’s go-time! This flag signals that the race has officially begun and racers can press down on their gas pedals.

2. Yellow

The yellow go-kart flag meaning may be the most important one to know. The track marshal will wave this flag to show the need for caution. A yellow flag could mean that there has been an accident up ahead or that something is blocking the racing path.

During this time, a racer must slow down and pay attention to the track conditions ahead of them. No passing or overtaking is allowed when the track marshal is waving a yellow flag.

3. Red

A red flag indicates that the race has been stopped, usually due to an on-track accident or obstruction. This racing flag color may also signal that there is an emergency on the track.

Racers must bring their go-karts to an immediate and controlled stop when a red flag is waved. No kart is allowed to continue moving, and racers should stay in their karts until instructed to do otherwise.

4. Blue

The rarest of all racing flag colors, blue indicates that a driver is holding up fellow racers. If a driver has been shown the blue flag, they must let the karts behind them pass safely.

5. Black

A black flag is issued when an infraction is taking place on the track. This warning is usually due to reckless or unsafe driving and can lead to disqualification from the race.

When a racer sees the black go-kart flag being waved at them, they must immediately stop driving recklessly and comply with the track’s safety regulations.

6. White

When the track marshal waves a white go-kart flag, it means that there is one lap remaining. Racers should give it their all for the final lap in a last attempt to win.

7. Checkered

Perhaps the most well-known of racing flags, the checkered flag signifies that the race will be complete once all racers cross the finish line.

Tampa Bay Grand Prix Is Your Place to Race

Now that you know the seven different types of go-kart racing flags, it’s time to hit the track! Contact us to schedule a race today.