--- description: "Undercut in F1 explained: how pitting first for fresh tyres gains track position, when it works, when it fails, and how leaders can defend against it." title: "Undercut in F1: pit-stop strategy explained with examples" image: https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/0011-330x220.jpg --- [Skip to main content](#content) ![Change language](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/gb.svg?v=2) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-spa-header.jpg) [![Try F1 on Apple TV for 7 days](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F1-Launch_Refresh2_Static_Affiliate_728x90_US-EN.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-apple-tv/) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) - [Home](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) - [F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/) - [F1 2026](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2026-formula-1-season/) - [F1 2027](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2027-formula-1-season/) - [All Time](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [F1 Stats](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-statistics/) - [Photos](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpapers/) - [F1 Fans](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fans/) - [F1 Quiz](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) - [F1 Tickets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - Add to home screen [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) # Undercut [![Undercut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/0011-330x220.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/0011.jpg) Pierre Gasly pit stop with the Toro Rosso STR13 **The undercut is a Formula 1 pit-stop strategy in which a driver pits before the car they are chasing, uses the pace advantage of fresh tyres to run one or more fast laps in clean air, and rejoins the race ahead of that rival when they eventually stop.** It is one of the most common overtaking tools in modern F1 and is planned lap by lap during every race. ## What is an undercut in F1? An undercut is a strategic pit-stop pattern in which the chasing driver, instead of trying to overtake on track, pits first for fresh tyres. The fresh compound produces significantly more grip on the out-lap than the older tyres of the leader, and the chasing driver can gain enough of a gap to rejoin ahead when the leader eventually pits themselves. ## When the undercut works - tyre degradation is high enough that fresh tyres produce a meaningful pace advantage; - the pit-lane time loss is small enough that the driver rejoins within striking distance; - fresh tyres come up to temperature quickly at the current track temperature; - the driver ahead cannot immediately match pace on their older set; - track position is not blocked by cars still on old rubber between them. ## How teams execute the undercut The strategy team on the pit wall watches for the pit window opening on the trailing car. When it does, they call the driver in without warning. The driver on fresh tyres then pushes flat-out through the out-lap and into the next racing lap, banking enough time gain to be ahead of the rival when they finally pit. Modern strategies often factor in the second or third stop of a race, chaining undercuts across multiple stints. ## Undercut versus overcut The **undercut** pits early and uses fresh-tyre pace to jump the leader. The **overcut** stays out longer and uses clean-air lap time to gain position through pit-stop timing. Both are strategic tools; the choice depends on tyre degradation, track temperature and traffic. Modern F1 uses the undercut far more often than the overcut because fresh-tyre pace is usually decisive. ## Frequently asked questions about the undercut ### What is an undercut in F1? An undercut is a strategy in which a chasing driver pits first, uses the pace advantage of fresh tyres, and rejoins the race ahead of a rival when they eventually stop. ### When does the undercut work? When tyre degradation is high enough, when fresh compound warms up quickly, and when there is no blocking traffic between the two cars. ### What is the difference between undercut and overcut? An undercut pits early to use fresh-tyre pace. An overcut stays out longer to use clean-air lap time to gain position through pit-stop timing. ### Which drivers use the undercut best? Every top team plans undercuts every race. Recent examples include Red Bull's frequent undercut plays in the Verstappen era and Mercedes' undercut execution across Hamilton's title years. ### Can drivers defend against an undercut? Yes. The leader's team can pit a lap or two before the trailing driver could complete their own stop, protecting position. This is often called a "reactive" or "defensive" undercut. Last updated: 4 Jul 2026, 01:07 ### Join our FREE weekly F1 Newsletter Enter your email address & confirm your subscription You've already signed up, Thanks! Check your inbox now to confirm your subscription. ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/plugins/sendpress//img/ajax-loader.gif) ### F1 News Categories - F1 Drivers - [Alexander Albon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alexander-albon-news/) - [Arvid Lindblad News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/arvid-lindblad-news/) - [Carlos Sainz News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/carlos-sainz-news/) - [Charles Leclerc News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/charles-leclerc-news/) - [Esteban Ocon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/esteban-ocon-news/) - [Fernando Alonso News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fernando-alonso-news/) - [Franco Colapinto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/franco-colapinto-news/) - [Gabriel Bortoleto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gabriel-bortoleto-news/) - [George Russell News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/george-russell-news/) - [Isack Hadjar News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/isack-hadjar-news/) - [Kimi Antonelli News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-antonelli-news/) - [Lance Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lance-stroll-news/) - [Lando Norris News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lando-norris-news/) - [Lewis Hamilton News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lewis-hamilton-news/) - [Liam Lawson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/liam-lawson-news/) - [Max Verstappen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/max-verstappen-news/) - [Nico Hulkenberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-hulkenberg-news/) - [Oliver Bearman News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oliver-bearman-news/) - [Oscar Piastri News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oscar-piastri-news/) - [Pierre Gasly News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pierre-gasly-news/) - [Sergio Perez News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sergio-perez-news/) - [Valtteri Bottas News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/valtteri-bottas-news/) - Paddock - [Alan Permane News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alan-permane/) - [Adrian Newey News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/adrian-newey/) - [Andrea Stella News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/andrea-stella-news/) - [Ayao Komatsu News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ayao-komatsu-news/) - [Bernie Ecclestone News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ecclestone-news/) - [Flavio Briatore News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/flavio-briatore/) - [Frederic Vasseur News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/frederic-vasseur-news/) - [Graeme Lowdon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/graeme-lowdon-news/) - [Günther Steiner News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gunther-steiner-news/) - [Helmut Marko News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/helmut-marko-news/) - [James Vowles News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/james-vowles-news/) - [Laurent Mekies News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/laurent-mekies-news/) - [Lawrence Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lawrence-stroll-news/) - [Mattia Binotto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mattia-binotto-news/) - [Pirelli F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pirelli-f1-news/) - [Toto Wolff News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/toto-wolff/) - [Zak Brown News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/zak-brown-news/) - Topic - [F1 Crash](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-crash/) - [F1 Death](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-death/) - [F1 Penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-penalty/) - [F1 Development](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-development/) - [F1 Engine](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-engine/) - [F1 Fun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-fun/) - [F1 Future](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-future/) - [F1 Gossip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-gossip/) - [F1 History](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-history/) - [F1 injury](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-injury/) - [F1 Lawsuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-lawsuit/) - [F1 Money](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-money/) - [F1 Regulations](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-regulations/) - [F1 Rumours](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-rumours/) - [F1 Silly Season](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/silly-season/) - [F1 Sponsor](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-sponsor/) - [F1 Technical](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-technical/) - [F1 Testing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-testing/) - [FIA News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fia/) - F1 Teams - [Alpine F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alpine-f1-team-news/ "Alpine F1 Team Updates") - [Aston Martin F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/aston-martin-f1-news/ "Aston Martin F1 Team Updates") - [Audi F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/audi-f1-news/) - [Cadillac F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/cadillac-f1-news/) - [Ferrari F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ferrari-f1-news/ "Scuderia Ferrari Updates") - [Haas F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/haas-f1-news/ "Haas F1 Team Updates") - [McLaren News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mclaren-news/ "Mclaren F1 Team Updates") - [Mercedes F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mercedes-f1-news/ "Mercedes F1 Team Updates") - [Red Bull Racing News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/red-bull-racing-news/ "Red Bull Racing F1 Team Updates") - [Racing Bulls News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/visa-cash-app-racing-bulls-news/) - [Williams News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/williams-news/ "Williams F1 Team Updates") - Ex-F1 Drivers - [Antonio Giovinazzi News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/antonio-giovinazzi-news/) - [Daniel Ricciardo News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/daniel-ricciardo-news/) - [Jack Doohan News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/jack-doohan-news/) - [Kevin Magnussen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kevin-magnussen-news/) - [Kimi Raikkonen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-raikkonen-news/) - [Logan Sargeant News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/logan-sargeant-news/) - [Marcus Ericsson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/marcus-ericsson-news/) - [Michael Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/michael-schumacher-news/) - [Mick Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mick-schumacher-news/) - [Nico Rosberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-rosberg-news/) - [Romain Grosjean News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/romain-grosjean-news/) - [Sebastian Vettel News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sebastian-vettel-news/) - [Yuki Tsunoda News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/yuki-tsunoda-news/) ### This Weeks Top 3 Trending F1 Topics - [![McLaren brings its reworked H-wing back for Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354230-featured-150x150.jpg)McLaren brings its reworked H-wing back for Baku1 comment | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/mclaren-brings-its-reworked-h-wing-back-for-baku/) - [![Wolff admits he cannot explain Russell's fade behind Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354233-featured-150x150.jpg)Wolff admits he cannot explain Russell's fade behi...1 comment | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/wolff-admits-he-cannot-explain-russells-fade-behind-antonelli/) - [![Previewing the 2026 Azerbaijan GP: Can Norris or Verstappen beat Antonelli and Mercedes?](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354380-featured-150x150.jpg)Previewing the 2026 Azerbaijan GP: Can Norris or V...2 comments | posted 5 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/previewing-the-2026-azerbaijan-gp-can-norris-or-verstappen-beat-antonelli-and-mercedes/) ### Get Your Tickets For Next Events - ![Singapore Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/sg.svg?v=2) 2026 Singapore F1 GP2026 Singapore F1 Grand Prix9–11 Oct SingaporeSingapore Circuit In 14 days [Tickets from €154 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Singapore) - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) 2026 Mexico F1 GP2026 Mexico F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct Autodromo H. RodriguezAutodromo H. Rodriguez In 28 days [Tickets from €483 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Mexico) - ![Circuit of The Americas](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/us.svg?v=2) 2026 USA F1 GP2026 USA F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct AustinCircuit of The Americas In 28 days [Tickets from €77 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=USA) [All F1 Tickets →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) ### LAST 3 F1 Fan COMMENTS - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1790172314) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/#comment-432274)14 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1790172314) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [Binotto finally ends rumours over Audi 2027 driver line-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/binotto-finally-ends-rumours-over-audi-2027-driver-line-up/#comment-432273)15 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/9b6cbbe072368790b9780f0dbca38f0c.jpg?ver=1790183113) [Shroppyfly](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/shroppyfly/) on [Horner leaves the door open for a Ferrari role](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/horner-leaves-the-door-open-for-a-ferrari-role/#comment-432272)22 hours ago [All F1 Fan Comments](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-comments-on-f1-fansite-com/) ### Latest F1 Quiz [![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/baku-gp-history-quiz-330x186.jpg)Before Baku: The Azerbaijan GP History Quiz10 questionsFans average 50%](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/before-baku-the-azerbaijan-gp-history-quiz/) [All F1 quizzes](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) ### F1 Glossary Menu - [Active Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/active-suspension/) - [ADUO](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aduo-system/) - [Aerodynamics](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aerodynamics/) - [Backmarker](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/backmarker/) - [Bargeboard](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bargeboard/) - [Blistering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blistering/) - [Blue flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blue-flag/) - [Bodywork](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bodywork/) - [Brake Balance](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/brake-balance/) - [Camber](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/camber/) - [CE (Control Electronics)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ce-control-electronics/) - [Chassis](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chassis/) - [Chicane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chicane/) - [Clean air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/clean-air/) - [Cockpit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/cockpit/) - [Compound](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/) - [Debrief](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/debrief/) - [Degradation (deg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/degradation/) - [Diffuser](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/diffuser/) - [Dirty air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dirty-air/) - [Disqualified](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/disqualified/) - [DNF](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dnf/) - [Downforce](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/downforce/) - [Drag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drag/) - [Drive-through penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drive-through-penalty/) - [DRS - Drag Reduction System](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drs-drag-reduction-system/) - [ECU (Engine Control Unit)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ecu-engine-control-unit/) - [ES (Energy Store)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/es-energy-store/) - [EX (Engine Exhaust System)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ex-engine-exhaust-system/) - [FIA (Federation Internationale de l Automobile)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fia-federation-internationale-de-lautomobile/) - [Formation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/formation-lap/) - [Fuel Rig](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fuel-rig/) - [G-force](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/g-force/) - [GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers Association)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/gdpa-grand-prix-drivers-association/) - [Graining](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/graining/) - [Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grand-prix/) - [Grid](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grid/) - [Grip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grip/) - [Ground Effect](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ground-effect/) - [Halo](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/halo/) - [HANS Device in Formula 1 Racing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/hans-device-in-formula-1-racing/) - [ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ice-internal-combustion-engine/) - [IP (Intellectual Property)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ip-intellectual-property/) - [Installation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/installation-lap/) - [Intermediates](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/intermediates/) - [Jump start](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/jump-start/) - [Lock-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/lock-up/) - [Marbles](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marbles/) - [Marshal](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marshal/) - [MGU-H](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-h-motor-generator-unit-heat/) - [MGU-K](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-k-motor-generator-unit-kinetic/) - [Monocoque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/monocoque/) - [Overcut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/) - [Oversteer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/oversteer/) - [Out-brake](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/out-brake/) - [Paddock](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/paddock/) - [Parc Fermé](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/parc-ferme/) - [Pits](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pits/) - [Pit board](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-board/) - [Pit crew](https://www.f1-fansite.com/pit-crew/) - [Pit lane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-lane/) - [Pit stop](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-stop/) - [Pit wall](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-wall/) - [Plank](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/the-plank-in-formula-1-cars/) - [Podium](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/podium/) - [Pole position](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pole-position/) - [Power Unit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/power-unit/ "Power Unit in F1 Explained") - [Qualifying](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/qualifying/) - [Retirement](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/retirement/) - [Race engineer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/race-engineer/) - [Red flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/red-flag/) - [Safety Car](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/safety-car/) - [Scrutineering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/scrutineering/) - [Sidepod](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/) - [Shakedown](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/shakedown/) - [Slicks](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slicks/) - [Slipstream](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slipstream/) - [Steward](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/steward/) - [Stop-and-go penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/stop-and-go-penalty/) - [Straight Mode](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/straight-mode/ "Straight Mode in Formula 1 explained") - [FIA Super Licence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/super-licence-fia/) - [Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/suspension/) - [Traction Control](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction-control/) - [Tear-off](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tear-off/) - [Telemetry](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/telemetry/) - [Torque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/torque/) - [Traction](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction/) - [Turbocharger (TC)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbo-charger-tc/) - [Turbulence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbulence/) - [Tyre blanket](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-blanket/) - [Tyre strategy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-strategy/) - [Undercut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/) - [Vortex Generator](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vortex-generator/) - [VSC (Virtual Safety Car)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vsc-virtual-safety-car/) - [Wheel gun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wheel-gun/) - [Wind tunnel correlation](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wind-tunnel-correlation/) - [Wing endplate](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wing-endplate/) - [Yellow flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/yellow-flag/) ### Last News Update - [![Cadillac now builds senior aero team from five title rivals](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/47-saturday-spa-francorchamps-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/cadillac-now-builds-senior-aero-team-from-five-title-rivals/) #### [Cadillac now builds senior aero team from five title rivals](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/cadillac-now-builds-senior-aero-team-from-five-title-rivals/)September 26, 2026 ### Latest Column - [![How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SI202209040849_news-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/) #### [How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/)September 25, 2026 ### Latest Video Update - [![Peter Windsor's Analysis of George Russell's Win at Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/M630838_F1_Grand_Prix_of_Azerbaijan_Practice-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-george-russells-win-at-baku/) #### [Peter Windsor's Analysis of George Russell's Win at Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/peter-windsors-analysis-of-george-russells-win-at-baku/)September 26, 2026 ### Newest Pictures - [![Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/32-friday-monza-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/) #### [Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/)September 4, 2026 ### Last Classification - [![2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results \& Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/33-baku-saturday-2026-UHD-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/) #### [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/)September 26, 2026 | 7 ### Newest Sound or Podcast - [![F1 Explains: Junior Categories with F3 Champion Ugo Ugochukwu](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/1017648185-LAT-20190804-1017648180-LAT-20190804-_R3I5016-496-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-junior-categories-with-f3-champion-ugo-ugochukwu/) #### [F1 Explains: Junior Categories with F3 Champion Ugo Ugochukwu](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-explains-junior-categories-with-f3-champion-ugo-ugochukwu/)September 25, 2026 ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Drivers - [Kimi Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/kimi-antonelli/) - [Franco Colapinto](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/franco-colapinto/) - [Sergio Pérez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/sergio-perez/) - [Max Verstappen](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/max-verstappen-information-statistics/) - [Lewis Hamilton](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/lewis-hamilton/) [All F1 drivers](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Teams - [Ferrari F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/ferrari-f1-information-statistics/) - [Mercedes F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/mercedes/) - [Aston Martin F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/aston-martin-f1-team-information-statistics/) - [Red Bull Racing F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/red-bull-racing/) - [Cadillac F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/cadillac-f1-team-stats-info/) [All F1 teams](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Races - [2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/azerbaijan-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [2026 Monaco Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/monaco-grand-prix/) - [2026 Dutch Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/dutch-grand-prix-f1-race-info/) - [2026 Austrian Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/austrian-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/las-vegas-grand-prix-f1-race-info/) [Full F1 calendar](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Content - [2026 F1 Standings Championship](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-results/f1-standings-2026-championship/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - [F1 On This Day](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-this-day/) - [F1 Driver Comparison Tool](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/f1-driver-comparison/) - [Login](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [All Time F1 content](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [Follow us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvgDhPFOF_RoheMLEmX8xCg) - [Follow us on X](https://twitter.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/f1fansite/) - [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/f1fansite.com_official/) - [Subscribe to our RSS feed](https://www.f1-fansite.com/feed/) [About](https://www.f1-fansite.com/about-us/) [Contact](https://www.f1-fansite.com/contact/) [Editorial Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/editorial-policy/) [Advertising](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-advertising/) [Disclaimer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/disclaimer/) [Privacy Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/privacy-policy/) [Cookie Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/cookie-policy/) © 2001-2026 F1-Fansite.com. All rights reserved. Powered by [ProTrix](https://protrix.nl). Not affiliated with Formula 1 or the FIA. Scroll to top × ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png) **Add F1-Fansite to your home screen** One tap and it’s on your home screen, like an app. Add 1. 1 Tap at the bottom of your screen 2. 2 Then pick “Add to Home Screen”
Share X Facebook WhatsApp Reddit Copy link
```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/","name":"Glossary"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"3","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/","name":"Undercut"}}]}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What is an undercut in F1?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"An undercut is a strategy in which a chasing driver pits first, uses fresh-tyre pace, and rejoins ahead of a rival when they eventually stop."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"When does the undercut work?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"When tyre degradation is high enough, when fresh compound warms up quickly, and when there is no blocking traffic between the two cars."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the difference between undercut and overcut?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"An undercut pits early to use fresh-tyre pace. An overcut stays out longer to use clean-air lap time."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which drivers use the undercut best?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Every top team plans undercuts every race. Recent examples include Red Bull frequent undercut plays and Mercedes execution across Hamilton title years."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can drivers defend against an undercut?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. The leader team can pit a lap or two before the trailing driver could complete their own stop, protecting position."}}]} ```