what is undercut in f1

In Formula 1, the undercut is a pit stop strategy where a driver makes a pit stop before other cars to get a fresh set of tires. With these tires, the driver expects to go faster than others. The goal of the undercut is to gain track positions and outsmart opponents. The driver who stops first has a fresher set of tires than their opponent, who is running slower lap times due to being on older, worn tires. The overcut, on the other hand, is when a driver takes a pit stop later than others. This strategy is used when undercutting won’t work to pass a competitor. Overcut is done with the hope that fresh tires will make them faster when they eventually go for a pit stop. Overcutting allows a driver to stay out on track for longer on older tires. This strategy is employed if the tires are not degrading quickly. This way the driver can maintain a faster speed than the cars that performed undercut. Both strategies can be effective, depending on factors like track condition, tire properties, and overall team strategy. Teams will often use a combination of both strategies during a race.