The invention relates to a cylinder-head gasket with a multiple sealing system using a retaining ring and a spring-loaded sealing ring which are arranged in an annular U-shaped flange adjoining the gasket body. The spring-loaded sealing ring acts as a primary seal against the combustion gases under all operating conditions of the engine. The retaining ring acts as a positive mechanical stop for the spring-loaded combustion ring, protects the latter against thermally induced cracking and acts as a secondary seal against the combustion gases. The U-shaped flange positions and supports the sealing rings relative to the gasket body.
