Pit crew

The Red Bull Racing pit crew in the garage during the Formula One Grand Prix of Hungary 2016

Pit crew is a term used in motorsports, particularly in Formula 1, to describe the team of mechanics and specialists who are responsible for servicing a race car during a pit stop. A pit crew is composed of various individuals who each have a specific role in the pit stop process.

The key members of a pit crew in Formula 1 include the front and rear tire changers, the jack operators, the fueler, and the lollipop man or woman who signals the driver when it is safe to leave the pit lane. Each member of the pit crew is highly trained and works together as a team to complete the pit stop as quickly and efficiently as possible.

During a pit stop, the pit crew must perform a range of tasks, including changing tires, refuelling the car, making adjustments to the car's setup, and sometimes even repairing damage sustained during the race. Pit stops can be completed in as little as 1.8 seconds in Formula 1, making them a crucial part of a team's strategy to gain an advantage over their rivals.

In addition to their technical skills, pit crew members must also possess excellent communication and coordination abilities. They need to be able to work together seamlessly to minimise the time spent in the pit lane and ensure that the car is ready to return to the track as quickly as possible.

Overall, the pit crew is an essential component of a successful Formula 1 team, and their skill and efficiency can make all the difference in a race.