F1 for Dummies - Part 3: Tracks

Formula 1 tracks are some of the most challenging tracks made for single-seater cars. They are all closed circuits and they are made up of turns, straights and everything in between. Below is the Bahrain track, that we are using as an example in this blog. 

Most tracks are divided into three sectors, shown in the above picture by colors. Red marks Sector 1, Blue marks sector 2 and Yellow marks sector 3. These are also further divided into mini-sectors.

The race starts from the starting line, where the race is also ended. On the map it is marked using the checkered flag, and is called the start/finish line. The numbers on the circuit marks the turns that the car needs to take on the track, with Turn 1 appearing right after the starting line. 

On most tracks there are also two DRS zones where cars are allowed to switch on their DRS under certain conditions (in Bahrain there are Three DRS zones - bonus!). DRS stands for drag reduction system. The details of how it works will be shared in a later blog, but all the reader needs to know is that turning on this switch in the F1 car allows it to go a few kmph faster. The driver is allowed to turn on the DRS if, when crossing the DRS detection zone, it is less than a second behind another car.

Often parallel to the starting grid on most tracks is the pitlane. This is the area where the rest of the team - mechanics, engineers and managing personnel, is situated, and the driver needs to bring the car into the pits in order to change tyres on it or replace other parts that may be damaged. Going through the pitlane adds more time to the lap because of the slow speed limit of the car in the pitlane.

Those are the main features of a formula 1 track. Stay tuned for more F1 for dummies! Next time - track limits and the various flags!