The rolling start is one of the most commonly used procedures in karting competitions, especially in international championships such as those organised by the FIA. Unlike the standing start, in which the karts start from static positions, in the rolling start the drivers start the race in motion after completing a formation lap. This method ensures a more controlled start and reduces the risk of incidents at the first corner.
In this article, we analyse how the rolling start works in karting, what rules regulate it and how Pixelcom’s technology helps to optimise the management of these procedures at circuits.
How does the rolling start work in karting?
The rolling start follows a series of steps strictly controlled by the race management to ensure that the start is fair and safe.
- Formation lap: The drivers start from their grid positions and complete a warm-up lap, maintaining their position in the group.
- Double file formation: On approaching the finishing straight, the riders must line up in two parallel rows and maintain a constant speed without overtaking.
- Green light or start flag: When the race direction verifies that the formation is correct, the start signal is given and the riders can accelerate to full throttle to start the race.
- Irregularity check: If drivers break formation before the start signal, the race direction can cancel the start and repeat the procedure.
This system is essential in high-level karting championships, as it minimises the risk of accidents and allows the race to start in a more orderly fashion.
Advantages of the rolling start in karting
- Greater safety at the start: Avoids accidents caused by differences in acceleration or blockages on the grid.
- More strategic opportunities: Drivers can adjust their position before the start to get a better line into the first corner.
- Fairer start: The chances of a rider losing positions due to a bad reaction at a standing start are reduced.
- Easier handling on wet circuits: In wet conditions, it allows a progressive adaptation to the grip of the asphalt.
How technology optimises the rolling start on karting circuits
For the rolling start to run smoothly, accurate communication and timing systems are essential. Technology plays a key role in managing the start and monitoring the drivers during the procedure.
- Timing systems and on-track sensors: Detect if a driver has overtaken early or broken formation before the start signal.
- Video surveillance cameras and live monitoring: Enable race management to review the formation and validate that the start is legal.
- Team communication systems: Ensure that marshals can relay information in real time to drivers and organisers.
- Live broadcast connectivity networks: Enable the public and technical analysts to follow the start with maximum accuracy.
How Pixelcom improves rolling start management in karting
Karting circuits that organise professional championships need to have an advanced telecommunications and control infrastructure. Pixelcom offers solutions that optimise rolling start management and ensure that competitions run accurately and safely.
- Real-time timing systems to detect undue overtaking at the start.
- Strategic cameras on the finishing straight to monitor the formation of the karts before the start.
- Internal communication networks that allow the race management to coordinate the start signal with the marshals and teams.
- Live broadcasting infrastructure, allowing spectators to follow every detail of the start procedure.
The rolling start is a key element in karting championships and its correct execution depends on a reliable technological infrastructure. Circuits that implement advanced telecommunications solutions ensure safer, fairer and more professional competitions.
