What is the purpose of a warm-up lap before a race?

The purpose of a warm-up lap before a race is primarily to check car performance and optimize settings. During this lap, drivers can assess how their vehicles handle and respond after being in the idle state prior to racing. It provides an opportunity for drivers to feel how the tires are working, gauge the car's braking performance, and make any necessary adjustments to settings such as tire pressure, suspension, and more to ensure optimal performance for the race ahead.

The warm-up lap is crucial for identifying any potential mechanical issues or adjustments that need to be made before the race starts. It can also serve to help drivers ensure they are comfortable with the car's handling dynamics. This assessment is key to a competitive edge in the race. The other choices, while they may seem related to race day activities, do not encapsulate the direct and critical significance of the warm-up lap as it pertains to vehicle performance and readiness.