Glossary

Formula 1 terms, in plain English.

Apex

The inside point of a corner where the driver places the car closest to the curb. Hitting the apex correctly means an efficient line and minimal speed loss.

DRS

Drag Reduction System. A mechanism that opens a flap on the rear wing in designated zones, lowering drag and aiding overtaking. In F1 since 2011.

Undercut

Pit strategy in which the chasing driver stops before the leader. Fresh tires deliver faster laps, and when the leader pits, they emerge behind.

Overcut

Opposite of the undercut. When the chasing driver tires hold pace better, they extend the stint past the leader and gain track position via degradation differential.

Dirty air

Turbulent wake behind a leading car that reduces the chasing car aerodynamic grip, making it harder to follow in high speed corners.

Parc fermé

Restrictive regime where cars are held under FIA custody between qualifying and the race. Significant mechanical and aerodynamic changes are forbidden.

Pole position

First place on the starting grid, earned by the fastest driver in qualifying. Counted as a separate statistical record from the race win.

Fastest lap

Fastest single lap recorded by any driver during the race. Since 2019, it grants one extra point to the driver who set it, provided they finish in the top ten.

ERS

Energy Recovery System. The hybrid setup that captures energy from braking (MGU-K) and exhaust (MGU-H) and delivers it back as extra power to the drivetrain.

Safety car

Neutral car deployed to neutralize the race after an accident, debris or unsafe conditions. The pack runs single file behind it at reduced speed.