Almost all domestic and international sports have their own set of lingos. And Formula 1 is no exception. As an F1 newcomer, you may feel a bit intimidated by the different F1 terms that commentators and loyal F1 use. But don’t worry. Here’s an F1 glossary guide that details the most commonly used F1 terms. Keep reading!
107% rule
As you’d be knowing, the Formula 1 championship makes use of a three-stage qualifying process. If it happens that a driver is unable to post a lap within 107% of the fastest Q1 time, they won’t be allowed to take part in the Grand Prix.
Aerodynamics
Simply put, aerodynamics refers to the study of airflow over the car’s design.
Airbox
An important F1 car part that’s located above the cockpit and acts as an engine car intake.
Apex
The apex is the innermost part of the driving line on the racecourse.
Backmarker
A term used to describe a slower car that’s running at the end of the field.
Blistering
Blistering refers to the damage caused to a car’s tyre due to overheating.
Chassis
The chassis is the base frame that supports the body and other elements of an F1 car.
Cockpit
The section of a Formula 1 car that accommodates the driver.
Downforce
The force that pushes an F1 car down as it travels forward.
Drag
Drag is the resistance an F1 car experiences when moving forward.
Driver Matchups
This is a popular Formula 1 betting term. Here, you select two drivers and wager on who you think will finish higher in that particular race.
FIA
This is an acronym for the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile. FIA is the regulatory authority for many global racing competitions.
Flat spot
A flat spot is damage caused to an F1 car’s tyre due to prolonged and severe braking.
HANS
This is an acronym for the Head and Neck Support device. The HANS device reduces the likelihood of getting severe head and neck injuries and must be worn by all racers.
Grip
Grip is how well a car sticks to the ground on the racetrack.
Heat cycle
Heat cycle describes the process where a car’s tyre heats up through usage and then cools down.
Jump Start
Jump Start is when a driver moves out of their grid before the five lights go off. Naturally, this earns them a penalty.
Paddock
A restricted area that’s home to a team’s garage, technical staff and other officials.
Retirement
Retirement is when a car is pulled out of a race. This usually happens due to an accident or mechanical failure.
Scrutineering
This F1 term refers to the technical checking of F1 cars by officials. Scrutineering is done to make sure that everything is according to the race regulations.
Visor StripThis is a carbon fibre-reinforced Zylon strip. It’s fitted on the top of every driver’s helmet for additional safety.
