Tear-off

Romain Grosjean Haas Australian GP F1/2018

Tear-off is a term used in Formula 1 Grand Prix racing that refers to the removable layer of plastic film placed over a driver's helmet visor. The tear-off film is designed to protect the visor from debris such as small rocks or insects that may cause damage or obscure a driver's vision.

During a race, it is common for a driver to encounter various types of debris that can be dangerous if it hits the visor. The tear-off film acts as a protective layer and can be quickly removed by the driver to maintain a clear view of the track ahead. A typical visor can have up to 30 layers of tear-off films that are removed one by one during the race, depending on the severity of the debris.

Tear-off films are typically made from a thin, clear plastic material that is specially formulated to be durable and scratch-resistant. The film is usually applied to the visor in a stacked formation, with each layer covering the previous one, and secured with adhesive tabs.

When a driver needs to remove a layer of tear-off film, they will reach up to the top of their helmet and grab the exposed tab of the top layer. They then quickly pull the film down and off the visor, revealing the next layer underneath. Drivers may need to remove multiple layers of tear-off films during a race, which requires them to quickly and accurately remove the film while driving at high speeds.

In addition to the driver's use of tear-off films, the pit crew may also remove layers of tear-off films during pit stops. This can help to ensure that the driver's vision is not impaired and that they can maintain their speed and focus on the race.

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ear-off films are an essential component of a driver's helmet in Formula 1 Grand Prix racing. They protect the visor from debris and allow the driver to maintain a clear view of the track ahead. The use of tear-off films requires skill and precision from the driver and the pit crew and can have a significant impact on a team's success in a race.