An incorrect version of the Union Flag was displayed on the Formula E podium following Jake Dennis’ victory to open the new era of the series.
The flag that was used to honour the Nuneaton-born driver, was missing the St Patrick’s Cross. This flag is the original flag of Great Britain and this is the earliest form of the flag that was developed in 1606. It was used during the reigns of James I and Charles I.
It is unclear at this point the reasoning behind this and could simply be an error as the original flag of Great Britain appears at the top of Google searches when the term ‘Flag of Great Britain’ is used on the search engine.
The Saint Patrick’s Saltire or the Saint Patrick’s Cross was later introduced into the flag to represent the patron saint of Ireland, now referencing Northern Ireland’s inclusion in the make-up of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
This meant the Flag of Great Britain was officially retired as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland was formed, with Northern Ireland being created upon the partition of Ireland in 1921.
The Union Flag or the Union Jack as it is more commonly referred to is used to represent the United Kingdom and it is under this flag that drivers from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use if they are registered with a British racing licence.
There are currently five drivers on the grid that race under a British license and it is unclear whether or not the same fate would have happened to them should anyone of the other four claim victory.
It’s not the first time flags and motorsport have not worked hand in hand. Back in 2010, the Spanish flag was displayed with its coat of arms back to front. To make matters worse, this was at the Spanish Grand Prix, according to an Autosport forum from the day after the race.
Formula E has been approached for a comment.