Glossary / General

five-second penalty

24 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

In racing, if a driver breaks a rule, they can get a time penalty. A five-second penalty means they have to wait an extra five seconds before continuing the race, which can hurt their chances of winning.

Technical Definition

A five-second penalty is a common sanction in motorsport where a driver must serve a time penalty during a pit stop or at the end of the race. It is usually given for infractions such as unsafe driving or causing collisions.

Hear It Discussed

"...he got the five-second penalty, you know, I thought Cooper just turned down, whether he was unaware or he was trying to take position..."
The Motorsport Brief | Shane van Gisbergen's Nascar journey, Bathurst thoughts and Q&A! Rusty's Garage 11:49

"after that five-second penalty for track limits. [1238.8s] Any doubt he'd have won?"
British GP: Revitalised Leclerc wins - but did F1 ruin the finale? The Race F1 Podcast 20:35

"And indeed, Dawlin did get a five second penalty for that was dropped and down the order for the start of this one."
OULTON PARK REVIEW BTCC 2026 BTCP British Touring Car Podcast 03:21