iRacing Sporting Code Guide
The iRacing Sporting Code defines rules and conduct. Understanding incident points, the protest system, and avoidable contact helps you race fairly and respond correctly when things go wrong.
Incident Points
Incident points are awarded for on-track infractions and affect your Safety Rating. They do not determine fault—they record what happened. Both drivers in a collision can receive points.
- 0x – Light contact (noted, no points)
- 1x – Off track, exceeding limits
- 2x – Contact with walls/barriers, loss of control (spin)
- 4x – Heavy car-to-car contact (paved). 2x in dirt
Multiple incidents in quick succession: only the highest value counts.
Protest System
Protests address malicious intent or rule violations that harm another driver's experience. File via the iRacing website with session and replay information.
- Accepted – Action or coaching required
- Racing Incident – No malicious intent found
- Rejections can occur for incomplete info, duplicates, or insufficient evidence
Every member has the right to appeal. iRacing's final decision is binding.
Avoidable Contact
Reckless driving, blocking, intentional wrecking, and retaliation are protestable. Racing incidents—honest mistakes—often are not. The protest system reviews intent and context.
Blue Flag: Informational Only
iRacing's blue flag is informational, not mandatory. Unlike F1, it does not require you to yield. It simply warns you that a faster car—one or more laps ahead—is behind you. You are not penalized for not yielding. Best practice is to be predictable and cooperative, but there is no rule forcing you to move over.
Common Rookie Mistakes
- Rejoining unsafely after a spin
- Blocking (moving in reaction to the car behind)
- Retaliation after contact
Next: Mental Performance for staying calm, or Safety Rating Guide for SR details.