Five-Second Penalty Meaning in Formula 1

A five second penalty adds five seconds to a driver’s time. Officials give it for minor rule breaches. The driver may serve it during a pit stop. He must wait five seconds before mechanics touch the car. For example causing a small collision may result in this penalty. If not served, time is added after the race. Even five seconds can change positions. Drivers often push harder to build a gap. Small penalties still carry big consequences.