In Formula 1, the formation lap is the lap before the lights go out at the start of the race. It is also known as a pace lap, parade lap, or warm-up lap. During this lap, drivers go around the track at a slow speed, usually between 30 and 75 mph, and in some cases, behind the safety car. The formation lap serves several purposes, including:

• Ensuring safety: The lap is to ensure that track conditions are safe and there are no dangerous problems with the car, including safety car, or the circuit.

• Warming up tires and brakes: The formation lap offers an opportunity for drivers to heat their tires and brakes so that performance off the line and braking into Turn 1 is optimal.

• Practicing the start: Drivers can also practice the start itself to ensure the clutch position is in the best place possible for the race start.

• Familiarizing drivers with the track: The formation lap allows drivers to assess race-day conditions on all track sectors and mentally prepare for the race.

Overtaking is not permitted during the formation lap in car racing, including F1. However, in certain motorcycle races, overtaking is allowed[[4]](https://en.wikipedia.org/...