When Does the Overtaking Ban Under MotoGP Yellow Flags End?

The Boundary of the Overtaking Restriction

In grand prix motorcycle racing, a yellow flag or trackside light panel alerts competitors to danger and instantly restricts on-track maneuvers. Under MotoGP yellow flag overtaking rules, riders cannot simply resume racing the moment they physically clear a crashed motorcycle or roadside recovery workers. The ban on passing remains active throughout the entire yellow-controlled section and only lifts at the exact point where a green flag or green light panel is displayed.

Along with holding position, competitors are required to reduce their speed and ride with caution through the hazard zone. The FIM regulations specify that whether marshals display a single yellow for an incident beside the circuit or double yellows for a hazard obstructing the asphalt, the overtaking ban and caution duties apply equally.

Self-Correction and Penalty Procedures

Making a pass in a yellow zone normally triggers steward intervention, but the regulations outline a direct escape route for honest mistakes. If a rider realizes immediately after completing an illegal move that they infringed the rules, they can avoid disciplinary action by intentionally letting every overtaken rider pass back.

When an improper pass is not promptly conceded, race officials notify the competitor via dashboard messaging, alongside notifications sent to team monitors. The lap count allotted for serving any assigned sanction begins when the rider crosses the finish line following that dashboard signal. Outside of the race itself, yellow zones carry automated consequences: passing a yellow signal during practice or warm-up sessions results in an immediate lap time cancellation, regardless of whether any passing occurred.

Official reference: danger ahead beside the track.