F1 Glossary · tracks
Chicane
A chicane is a tight, S-shaped sequence of corners used on race tracks to slow cars down and create overtaking opportunities.
The Geometry of a Chicane
A chicane is an artificial sequence of tight, alternating turns—typically a left then a right, or vice versa—placed on a straight or high-speed section of a circuit. In Formula 1, these features are designed to disrupt the flow of the track, forcing drivers to brake heavily from high speeds. The primary technical challenge lies in "attacking" the kerbs to maintain momentum without upsetting the car's aerodynamic balance or violating track limits. A well-designed chicane requires a compromise between a sharp entry and a clean exit to maximize speed on the following straight.
Strategic Importance in Racing
Chicanes serve two main purposes: safety and competition. By breaking up long straights, they prevent cars from reaching unsafe terminal velocities, which is particularly important on older circuits or street tracks with limited runoff. Competitively, they are prime overtaking zones. Because they require heavy braking, a driver can attempt a "late braking" maneuver to pass an opponent on the entry. Furthermore, the exit of a chicane is crucial; a poor exit compromises speed down the following straight, making the driver vulnerable to being overtaken by cars using DRS.
Real-World Examples
The "Nouvelle Chicane" at the Circuit de Monaco is perhaps the most famous. Emerging from the high-speed tunnel, drivers must brake violently for this tight left-right sequence. It is one of the few places on the narrow streets of Monte Carlo where overtaking is feasible. Another iconic example is the "Variante del Rettifilo" at Monza. Here, cars decelerate from over 330 km/h to roughly 80 km/h, often leading to first-lap incidents as the field bunches up into the narrow funnel of the turn.
Common Misconceptions
Viewers often confuse chicanes with "S-curves" or "Esses." While both involve alternating turns, Esses (like Maggotts and Becketts at Silverstone) are generally high-speed and flowing. Chicanes are characterized by their "stop-start" nature and significant speed reduction. Additionally, "cutting" a chicane—driving over the kerbs or runoff to save time—is strictly regulated. If a driver leaves the track and gains a lasting advantage, they are typically required to give the position back or face a time penalty from the stewards.
Common questions
- Why are chicanes added to long straights?
- They are primarily added to reduce top speeds for safety and to create heavy braking zones that encourage overtaking maneuvers.
- What happens if a driver misses a chicane?
- If a driver goes off-track to bypass a chicane, they must rejoin safely. If they gain a position or time, they must usually give the advantage back to avoid a penalty.
- What is the difference between a chicane and Esses?
- Chicanes are tight, low-speed turns designed to slow the car down significantly. Esses are high-speed, flowing corners where maintaining momentum and aerodynamic grip is the priority.
- What is a 'bus stop' chicane?
- A 'bus stop' chicane is a specific type of chicane, like the one at Spa-Francorchamps, named for its shape which resembles a roadside bus pull-off area.