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The checkered flag is the most famous flag in auto racing, and it invariably indicates that the leader has completed the race.
There is no standard design for the checkered flag. Although it nearly always consists of alternating black and white squares or rectangles arranged in a chequerboard pattern, the number, size, and length-width proportions of the rectangles vary from one flag to another. Also, the checkered flag typically has a black rectangle at the corner of the flag closest to the top of the flagpole. In NASCAR, the checkered flag has also had the fuel sponsor¡¯s logo (Sunoco, since 2004 and Union 76 Before) emblazoned in the center of the flag.
NASCAR traditionally has a special version of the checkered flag sewn for Victory Lane that has the name and date of the race on it. That flag is used for the team in winner's photographs taken after the race, and is a prize awarded to the team along with the race trophy. Teams often hang such flags at race team's headquarters in a similar fashion to other sports hanging championship banners from the rafters at stadiums.
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