The 107% rule is a safety measure in racing. It prevents dangerously slow cars from entering the track. During the first qualifying session, officials note the fastest lap time. Any car that fails to run a lap within 107% of that time is disqualified. For example, if the top time is 100 seconds, the cutoff is 107 seconds. Officials can make exceptions if a driver showed quick times during practice but had a mechanical failure during qualifying.
Mechanic Glossary
107% Rule
A sporting regulation in Formula One and other motorsports requiring drivers to qualify within 107% of the fastest qualifying time to start the race.
Frequently Asked Questions
To prevent slow cars from blocking the track or causing accidents. A large speed difference between cars is dangerous.
Yes, but only with permission from race stewards. Stewards review practice times to see if the driver has the pace to run safely.
It was introduced in 1996 to stop uncompetitive teams from qualifying. It was suspended in 2003 and brought back in 2011.