Oversteer

Jacky Ickx fighting oversteer in the Lotus 72E 

Oversteer is a condition in which a Formula 1 car turns more than the driver intended, often caused by a loss of traction on the rear tires. This can occur when the rear tires lose their grip and can no longer maintain the intended trajectory of the car, causing the rear of the car to slide out. Oversteer can be a dangerous situation for the driver, as it can lead to a spin or crash.

Oversteer can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a driver's driving style, the car's setup, and the track conditions. For example, a driver who is braking too late or accelerating too quickly can cause the rear tires to lose grip and oversteer. Additionally, a car that is set up with too much downforce on the rear of the car can also cause oversteer. Track conditions such as wet or slippery surfaces can also contribute to oversteer.

Drivers must be able to recognize and react quickly to oversteer, as it can occur suddenly and unexpectedly. To regain control of the car, the driver must reduce their speed and countersteer, which is to steer in the opposite direction of the oversteer. This can help to bring the rear of the car back in line with the front of the car, and regain control of the car.

In summary, Oversteer is a condition in which a Formula 1 car turns more than the driver intended, often caused by a loss of traction on the rear tires. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a driver's driving style, the car's setup, and the track conditions. Drivers must be able to recognize and react quickly to oversteer, as it can occur suddenly and unexpectedly, to regain control of the car, the driver must reduce their speed and countersteer, which is to steer in the opposite direction of the oversteer.