The "checkered flag" is a symbol used in auto racing to indicate the end of a race. It features a pattern of alternating black and white squares, resembling a chessboard. When waved by the race official, it signals to drivers that they have completed the race distance and should slow down or stop. In addition to its primary use in racing, the checkered flag has become a broader symbol of victory and achievement in various contexts. It is often associated with motorsports events, such as those in the NASCAR and Formula 1 series, where it plays a crucial role in determining the race's conclusion.