Rules & penalties · Updated for 2026
F1 stop-go penalties explained
The severe in-race sanction that combines a pit-lane transit with a stationary hold.
Quick answer
A stop-go penalty makes the driver enter the pits, stop in their box for the stated time without mechanics working on the car, and then rejoin the race.
01
What the team does
Mechanics can stand ready, but they must not perform normal service during the penalty hold. The car leaves only after the required time has elapsed.
02
Why it is severe
The driver loses the pit-lane transit time plus the stationary period, often dropping far more positions than with a standard time penalty.
03
When it appears
Stewards reserve stronger sanctions for more serious infringements. The decision document states the offence, evidence and exact penalty to be served.