Strategy · Updated for 2026
F1 team orders explained
How a team coordinates its two drivers when their individual races and the team's objectives diverge.
Quick answer
A team order is an instruction that coordinates its two cars, such as swapping positions, holding station or managing a pit sequence. Team orders are permitted, but every instruction remains subject to the sporting and technical regulations.
Why teams issue orders
Two cars may be on different tyre strategies, carrying different damage or fighting rivals in separate championships. Moving one aside can avoid delay, reduce collision risk or maximise the combined result.
Common forms
A driver may be asked not to attack, to let a faster team-mate pass, to return a position or to create a gap for pit-stop sequencing. The message may be direct or expressed as a strategic instruction.
The sporting boundary
Permission to coordinate does not excuse dangerous driving, manipulation outside the rules or failure to obey officials. Teams and drivers remain accountable for how an order is executed.