F1 Glossary · tracks
Kerb
Also known as: Curb
Kerbs are raised, painted edges along track corners used by drivers to optimize their racing line and maintain higher speeds.
Defining the Kerb
In Formula 1, a kerb is the raised, often serrated edge lining the apex and exit of a corner. Usually painted in contrasting colors like red and white, these structures serve as the physical boundary between the asphalt track and the surrounding run-off area or grass. Kerbs are designed to help drivers identify the limits of the circuit while providing a slightly wider surface to navigate tight turns.
Strategic Importance
Drivers use kerbs to "straighten" a corner. By clipping the apex kerb or running wide onto the exit kerb, a driver can maintain a higher minimum speed and achieve a better trajectory for the following straight. However, this is a high-risk maneuver. While some kerbs are flat and offer extra grip, others are "aggressive" or "toothed," designed to unsettle the car’s suspension. Striking a kerb too hard can damage the delicate carbon fiber floor or front wing, leading to a loss of aerodynamic downforce.
Recent Examples
The Red Bull Ring in Austria is famous for its "sausage kerbs"—raised yellow bumps placed behind the primary kerbing. In recent seasons, these have caused significant damage to front wings and suspension components when drivers pushed too far wide. Conversely, at the Monaco Grand Prix, drivers must kiss the kerbs with millimeter precision; hitting them too hard at the Swimming Pool chicane can launch the car into the barriers.
Common Viewer Confusion
Fans often confuse kerbs with track limits. While the kerb is part of the track's physical infrastructure, the FIA usually defines track limits by the white line. If a driver puts all four wheels beyond the white line, even if they are still on the kerb, they may face a lap time deletion or a penalty. Additionally, "sausage kerbs" are distinct from standard kerbs, acting as a deterrent rather than a racing surface.
Common questions
- Why do drivers avoid some kerbs?
- Drivers avoid aggressive kerbs because they can unsettle the car's balance, causing a spin, or cause physical damage to the floor and suspension. Some kerbs are designed specifically to be too bumpy to drive over safely.
- Is the kerb considered part of the track?
- Physically, yes, but for officiating purposes, the white line defines the track limit. A driver is usually penalized if all four wheels cross the white line, even if the car is still on the kerb.
- What are sausage kerbs?
- Sausage kerbs are large, raised yellow bumps placed behind the standard kerbing. They are designed to discourage drivers from cutting corners or running too wide, as hitting them can launch a car into the air.
- Why are kerbs painted different colors?
- Kerbs are painted in high-contrast colors (often red and white) to provide maximum visibility for drivers at high speeds. The paint used is a specialized high-grip coating to prevent cars from sliding when it is wet.