--- description: "Overcut in F1 explained: how staying out longer than the leader gains track position, when it works, when it fails, and Hamiltons 2019 Monaco example." title: "Overcut in F1: pit-stop strategy explained with examples" image: https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/M291135-330x220.jpg --- [Skip to main content](#content) ![Change language](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/gb.svg?v=2) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/2026-spa-header.jpg) [![Try F1 on Apple TV for 7 days](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F1-Launch_Refresh2_Static_Affiliate_728x90_US-EN.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-apple-tv/) [![F1-Fansite.com](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo.png)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) - [Home](https://www.f1-fansite.com/) - [F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/) - [F1 2026](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2026-formula-1-season/) - [F1 2027](https://www.f1-fansite.com/2027-formula-1-season/) - [All Time](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [F1 Stats](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-statistics/) - [Photos](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpapers/) - [F1 Fans](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fans/) - [F1 Quiz](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) - [F1 Tickets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - Add to home screen [Sign in](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) [Next session![Sepang International Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/my.svg?v=2) MY Bahrain Grand Prix · FP100d 00h 00m 00s](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) # Overcut [![overcut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/M291135-330x220.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/M291135.jpg) Lewis Hamilton driving into the pits at Losail circuit during practice for the 2018 Qatar F1 GP. **The overcut is a Formula 1 pit-stop strategy in which a driver deliberately stays out longer than the car they are trying to pass, using clean-air lap time to gain enough of a gap to emerge ahead after the stops complete.** It is the direct opposite of the undercut, and it works best in the specific circumstances where fresh tyres are not immediately faster than the car ahead's old ones. ## What is an overcut in F1? An overcut is a pit-stop strategy in which the trailing driver, instead of pitting first and using fresh tyres to jump the driver ahead, deliberately stays out for extra laps. The driver ahead pits first, comes out into traffic on cold tyres, and the overcutting driver uses those extra laps in clean air to open up enough of a gap to rejoin still ahead when they finally pit. ## When the overcut works - tyre degradation is low and the older set is still delivering competitive pace; - the driver ahead pits into heavy traffic and loses time on the out-lap; - fresh tyres take a long time to come up to temperature at cool circuits; - the leader has fresh drop-off tyres that need managing on their first laps; - the trailing driver is in clean air with pace to burn. ## When the overcut fails Overcuts fail when the leader's new tyres immediately produce lap-time advantage the overcutting driver cannot match on their older set. On hot circuits with high tyre degradation, or on any track where the fresh compound is already in its working window at pit exit, the overcut usually turns into a lost position. ## Overcut versus undercut The **undercut** is the more common strategy: pit early, take fresh tyres, drive fast on the out-lap and jump the leader when they finally stop. The **overcut** reverses that logic: stay out, use clean air, and gain the position through pit-stop timing rather than fresh rubber. Both are used strategically, but the undercut is more common because the pace advantage of new tyres is usually decisive. ## Frequently asked questions about the overcut ### What is an overcut in F1? An overcut is a strategy in which a trailing driver stays out longer than the leader, using clean-air lap time to gain enough gap to rejoin ahead after the pit stops complete. ### How is the overcut different from the undercut? The undercut pits first for fresh tyres to jump the leader on out-lap pace. The overcut stays out, uses clean air, and rejoins ahead through timing rather than fresh compound advantage. ### When does the overcut work best? When tyre degradation is low, when the leader pits into traffic, when fresh tyres take time to come up to temperature, and when the overcutting driver is in genuinely clean air. ### Why is the overcut less common than the undercut? Because on most modern circuits and compounds the pace advantage of fresh tyres is immediately decisive, and holding position on older rubber becomes difficult very quickly. ### Which drivers are famous for the overcut? Lewis Hamilton's 2019 win at Monaco is regarded as a textbook overcut, staying out on medium tyres to preserve track position when others pitted. Last updated: 4 Jul 2026, 00:45 ### Join our FREE weekly F1 Newsletter Enter your email address & confirm your subscription You've already signed up, Thanks! Check your inbox now to confirm your subscription. ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/plugins/sendpress//img/ajax-loader.gif) ### F1 News Categories - F1 Drivers - [Alexander Albon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alexander-albon-news/) - [Arvid Lindblad News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/arvid-lindblad-news/) - [Carlos Sainz News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/carlos-sainz-news/) - [Charles Leclerc News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/charles-leclerc-news/) - [Esteban Ocon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/esteban-ocon-news/) - [Fernando Alonso News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fernando-alonso-news/) - [Franco Colapinto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/franco-colapinto-news/) - [Gabriel Bortoleto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gabriel-bortoleto-news/) - [George Russell News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/george-russell-news/) - [Isack Hadjar News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/isack-hadjar-news/) - [Kimi Antonelli News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-antonelli-news/) - [Lance Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lance-stroll-news/) - [Lando Norris News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lando-norris-news/) - [Lewis Hamilton News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lewis-hamilton-news/) - [Liam Lawson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/liam-lawson-news/) - [Max Verstappen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/max-verstappen-news/) - [Nico Hulkenberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-hulkenberg-news/) - [Oliver Bearman News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oliver-bearman-news/) - [Oscar Piastri News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/oscar-piastri-news/) - [Pierre Gasly News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pierre-gasly-news/) - [Sergio Perez News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sergio-perez-news/) - [Valtteri Bottas News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/valtteri-bottas-news/) - Paddock - [Alan Permane News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alan-permane/) - [Adrian Newey News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/adrian-newey/) - [Andrea Stella News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/andrea-stella-news/) - [Ayao Komatsu News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ayao-komatsu-news/) - [Bernie Ecclestone News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ecclestone-news/) - [Flavio Briatore News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/flavio-briatore/) - [Frederic Vasseur News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/frederic-vasseur-news/) - [Graeme Lowdon News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/graeme-lowdon-news/) - [Günther Steiner News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/gunther-steiner-news/) - [Helmut Marko News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/helmut-marko-news/) - [James Vowles News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/james-vowles-news/) - [Laurent Mekies News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/laurent-mekies-news/) - [Lawrence Stroll News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/lawrence-stroll-news/) - [Mattia Binotto News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mattia-binotto-news/) - [Pirelli F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/pirelli-f1-news/) - [Toto Wolff News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/toto-wolff/) - [Zak Brown News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/zak-brown-news/) - Topic - [F1 Crash](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-crash/) - [F1 Death](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-death/) - [F1 Penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-penalty/) - [F1 Development](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-development/) - [F1 Engine](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-engine/) - [F1 Fun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-fun/) - [F1 Future](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-future/) - [F1 Gossip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-gossip/) - [F1 History](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-history/) - [F1 injury](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-injury/) - [F1 Lawsuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-lawsuit/) - [F1 Money](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-money/) - [F1 Regulations](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-regulations/) - [F1 Rumours](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-rumours/) - [F1 Silly Season](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/silly-season/) - [F1 Sponsor](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-sponsor/) - [F1 Technical](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-technical/) - [F1 Testing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/f1-testing/) - [FIA News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/fia/) - F1 Teams - [Alpine F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/alpine-f1-team-news/ "Alpine F1 Team Updates") - [Aston Martin F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/aston-martin-f1-news/ "Aston Martin F1 Team Updates") - [Audi F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/audi-f1-news/) - [Cadillac F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/cadillac-f1-news/) - [Ferrari F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/ferrari-f1-news/ "Scuderia Ferrari Updates") - [Haas F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/haas-f1-news/ "Haas F1 Team Updates") - [McLaren News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mclaren-news/ "Mclaren F1 Team Updates") - [Mercedes F1 News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mercedes-f1-news/ "Mercedes F1 Team Updates") - [Red Bull Racing News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/red-bull-racing-news/ "Red Bull Racing F1 Team Updates") - [Racing Bulls News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/visa-cash-app-racing-bulls-news/) - [Williams News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/williams-news/ "Williams F1 Team Updates") - Ex-F1 Drivers - [Antonio Giovinazzi News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/antonio-giovinazzi-news/) - [Daniel Ricciardo News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/daniel-ricciardo-news/) - [Jack Doohan News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/jack-doohan-news/) - [Kevin Magnussen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kevin-magnussen-news/) - [Kimi Raikkonen News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/kimi-raikkonen-news/) - [Logan Sargeant News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/logan-sargeant-news/) - [Marcus Ericsson News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/marcus-ericsson-news/) - [Michael Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/michael-schumacher-news/) - [Mick Schumacher News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/mick-schumacher-news/) - [Nico Rosberg News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/nico-rosberg-news/) - [Romain Grosjean News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/romain-grosjean-news/) - [Sebastian Vettel News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/sebastian-vettel-news/) - [Yuki Tsunoda News](https://www.f1-fansite.com/tag/yuki-tsunoda-news/) ### This Weeks Top 3 Trending F1 Topics - [![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/355963-featured-150x150.jpg)Ferrari's Hamilton problem returns after another d...1 comment | posted 20 hours ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/ferraris-hamilton-problem-returns-after-another-difficult-weekend/) - [![Horner leaves the door open for a Ferrari role](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/plugins/wordpress-popular-posts/assets/images/no_thumb.jpg)Horner leaves the door open for a Ferrari role1 comment | posted 3 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/horner-leaves-the-door-open-for-a-ferrari-role/) - [![Komatsu rules out a pink car \& not a new sponsor](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/wordpress-popular-posts/354299-featured-150x150.jpg)Komatsu rules out a pink car & not a new spon...4 comments | posted 6 days ago](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/komatsu-rules-out-a-pink-car-not-a-new-sponsor/) ### Get Your Tickets For Next Events - ![Singapore Circuit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/sg.svg?v=2) 2026 Singapore F1 GP2026 Singapore F1 Grand Prix9–11 Oct SingaporeSingapore Circuit In 12 days [Tickets from €154 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Singapore) - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/mx.svg?v=2) 2026 Mexico F1 GP2026 Mexico F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct Autodromo H. RodriguezAutodromo H. Rodriguez In 26 days [Tickets from €483 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=Mexico) - ![Circuit of The Americas](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/flags-svg/us.svg?v=2) 2026 USA F1 GP2026 USA F1 Grand Prix23–25 Oct AustinCircuit of The Americas In 26 days [Tickets from €77 →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/buy/?gp=USA) [All F1 Tickets →](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-tickets/) ### LAST 3 F1 Fan COMMENTS - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/9b6cbbe072368790b9780f0dbca38f0c.jpg?ver=1790183113) [Shroppyfly](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/shroppyfly/) on [Ferrari's Hamilton problem returns after another difficult weekend](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/ferraris-hamilton-problem-returns-after-another-difficult-weekend/#comment-432277)14 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/9b6cbbe072368790b9780f0dbca38f0c.jpg?ver=1790183113) [Shroppyfly](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/shroppyfly/) on [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/#comment-432276)14 hours ago - ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/502d29f8cbb897956d66858c8db3a5e6.jpg?ver=1790172314) [Jere Jyrälä](https://www.f1-fansite.com/fan/jere-jyrala/) on [Norris backlash grows again as Argentina piles on after Baku](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/norris-backlash-grows-again-as-argentina-piles-on-after-baku/#comment-432275)14 hours ago [All F1 Fan Comments](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-comments-on-f1-fansite-com/) ### Latest F1 Quiz [![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/baku-gp-history-quiz-330x186.jpg)Before Baku: The Azerbaijan GP History Quiz10 questionsFans average 55%](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/before-baku-the-azerbaijan-gp-history-quiz/) [All F1 quizzes](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-quizzes/) ### F1 Glossary Menu - [Active Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/active-suspension/) - [ADUO](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aduo-system/) - [Aerodynamics](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/aerodynamics/) - [Backmarker](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/backmarker/) - [Bargeboard](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bargeboard/) - [Blistering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blistering/) - [Blue flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/blue-flag/) - [Bodywork](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/bodywork/) - [Brake Balance](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/brake-balance/) - [Camber](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/camber/) - [CE (Control Electronics)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ce-control-electronics/) - [Chassis](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chassis/) - [Chicane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/chicane/) - [Clean air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/clean-air/) - [Cockpit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/cockpit/) - [Compound](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/compound/) - [Debrief](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/debrief/) - [Degradation (deg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/degradation/) - [Diffuser](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/diffuser/) - [Dirty air](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dirty-air/) - [Disqualified](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/disqualified/) - [DNF](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/dnf/) - [Downforce](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/downforce/) - [Drag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drag/) - [Drive-through penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drive-through-penalty/) - [DRS - Drag Reduction System](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/drs-drag-reduction-system/) - [ECU (Engine Control Unit)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ecu-engine-control-unit/) - [ES (Energy Store)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/es-energy-store/) - [EX (Engine Exhaust System)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ex-engine-exhaust-system/) - [FIA (Federation Internationale de l Automobile)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fia-federation-internationale-de-lautomobile/) - [Formation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/formation-lap/) - [Fuel Rig](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/fuel-rig/) - [G-force](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/g-force/) - [GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers Association)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/gdpa-grand-prix-drivers-association/) - [Graining](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/graining/) - [Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grand-prix/) - [Grid](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grid/) - [Grip](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/grip/) - [Ground Effect](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ground-effect/) - [Halo](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/halo/) - [HANS Device in Formula 1 Racing](https://www.f1-fansite.com/hans-device-in-formula-1-racing/) - [ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ice-internal-combustion-engine/) - [IP (Intellectual Property)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/ip-intellectual-property/) - [Installation Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/installation-lap/) - [Intermediates](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/intermediates/) - [Jump start](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/jump-start/) - [Lock-up](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/lock-up/) - [Marbles](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marbles/) - [Marshal](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/marshal/) - [MGU-H](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-h-motor-generator-unit-heat/) - [MGU-K](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/mgu-k-motor-generator-unit-kinetic/) - [Monocoque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/monocoque/) - [Overcut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/) - [Oversteer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/oversteer/) - [Out-brake](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/out-brake/) - [Paddock](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/paddock/) - [Parc Fermé](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/parc-ferme/) - [Pits](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pits/) - [Pit board](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-board/) - [Pit crew](https://www.f1-fansite.com/pit-crew/) - [Pit lane](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-lane/) - [Pit stop](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-stop/) - [Pit wall](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pit-wall/) - [Plank](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/the-plank-in-formula-1-cars/) - [Podium](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/podium/) - [Pole position](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/pole-position/) - [Power Unit](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/power-unit/ "Power Unit in F1 Explained") - [Qualifying](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/qualifying/) - [Retirement](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/retirement/) - [Race engineer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/race-engineer/) - [Red flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/red-flag/) - [Safety Car](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/safety-car/) - [Scrutineering](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/scrutineering/) - [Sidepod](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/sidepod/) - [Shakedown](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/shakedown/) - [Slicks](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slicks/) - [Slipstream](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/slipstream/) - [Steward](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/steward/) - [Stop-and-go penalty](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/stop-and-go-penalty/) - [Straight Mode](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/straight-mode/ "Straight Mode in Formula 1 explained") - [FIA Super Licence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/super-licence-fia/) - [Suspension](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/suspension/) - [Traction Control](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction-control/) - [Tear-off](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tear-off/) - [Telemetry](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/telemetry/) - [Torque](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/torque/) - [Traction](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/traction/) - [Turbocharger (TC)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbo-charger-tc/) - [Turbulence](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/turbulence/) - [Tyre blanket](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-blanket/) - [Tyre strategy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/tyre-strategy/) - [Undercut](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/undercut/) - [Vortex Generator](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vortex-generator/) - [VSC (Virtual Safety Car)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/vsc-virtual-safety-car/) - [Wheel gun](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wheel-gun/) - [Wind tunnel correlation](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wind-tunnel-correlation/) - [Wing endplate](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/wing-endplate/) - [Yellow flag](https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/yellow-flag/) ### Last News Update - [![Audi Takes F1 to Singapore’s Streets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20-friday-monza-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/audi-takes-f1-to-singapores-streets/) #### [Audi Takes F1 to Singapore’s Streets](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-news/audi-takes-f1-to-singapores-streets/)September 28, 2026 ### Latest Column - [![How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/SI202209040849_news-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/) #### [How Digital Technology Is Changing the F1 Fan Experience](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-column/how-digital-technology-is-changing-the-f1-fan-experience/)September 25, 2026 ### Latest Video Update - [![Max Verstappen's "Impossible Interview" During Monza Hot Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SI202607260271-UHD-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/max-verstappens-impossible-interview-during-monza-hot-lap/) #### [Max Verstappen's "Impossible Interview" During Monza Hot Lap](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-videos/max-verstappens-impossible-interview-during-monza-hot-lap/)September 28, 2026 ### Newest Pictures - [![Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/32-friday-monza-2026-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/) #### [Photos of Friday Practice before the 2026 Italian F1 GP](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-wallpaper/photos-of-friday-practice-before-the-2026-italian-f1-gp/)September 4, 2026 ### Last Classification - [![2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results \& Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/33-baku-saturday-2026-UHD-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/) #### [2026 Azerbaijan Formula 1 Grand Prix Results & Report](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-result/2026-azerbaijan-formula-1-grand-prix-results-report/)September 26, 2026 | 8 ### Newest Sound or Podcast - [![F1 Nation's Review of 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/m613059-Large-150x150.jpg)](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-nations-review-of-2026-azerbaijan-grand-prix/) #### [F1 Nation's Review of 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-sound/f1-nations-review-of-2026-azerbaijan-grand-prix/)September 28, 2026 ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Drivers - [Kimi Antonelli](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/kimi-antonelli/) - [Esteban Ocon](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/esteban-ocon-information-statistics/) - [George Russell](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/george-russell-information-statistics/) - [Franco Colapinto](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/franco-colapinto/) - [Sergio Pérez](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/sergio-perez/) [All F1 drivers](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Teams - [Mercedes F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/mercedes/) - [Aston Martin F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/aston-martin-f1-team-information-statistics/) - [Ferrari F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/ferrari-f1-information-statistics/) - [Toro Rosso F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/toro-rosso/) - [Red Bull Racing F1 Team](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/red-bull-racing/) [All F1 teams](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-teams/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Races - [2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/azerbaijan-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [2026 Singapore Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/singapore-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) - [Bahrain Grand Prix F1 Race info](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/bahrain-grand-prix/) - [2026 Dutch Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/dutch-grand-prix-f1-race-info/) - [2026 Belgian Grand Prix](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/belgian-grand-prix-f1-race-information/) [Full F1 calendar](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-calendar/) ### TOP 5 Popular F1 Content - [2026 F1 Standings Championship](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-results/f1-standings-2026-championship/) - [F1 Merchandise](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-merchandise/) - [F1 On This Day](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-on-this-day/) - [F1 Driver Comparison Tool](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-drivers/f1-driver-comparison/) - [Login](https://www.f1-fansite.com/login/) [All Time F1 content](https://www.f1-fansite.com/all-time-f1-archive/) - [Follow us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvgDhPFOF_RoheMLEmX8xCg) - [Follow us on X](https://twitter.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/f1fansite) - [Follow us on Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/f1fansite/) - [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/f1fansite.com_official/) - [Subscribe to our RSS feed](https://www.f1-fansite.com/feed/) [About](https://www.f1-fansite.com/about-us/) [Contact](https://www.f1-fansite.com/contact/) [Editorial Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/editorial-policy/) [Advertising](https://www.f1-fansite.com/f1-advertising/) [Disclaimer](https://www.f1-fansite.com/disclaimer/) [Privacy Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/privacy-policy/) [Cookie Policy](https://www.f1-fansite.com/cookie-policy/) © 2001-2026 F1-Fansite.com. All rights reserved. Powered by [ProTrix](https://protrix.nl). Not affiliated with Formula 1 or the FIA. Scroll to top × ![](https://www.f1-fansite.com/wp-content/themes/f1fansite/images/logo-mob.png) **Add F1-Fansite to your home screen** One tap and it’s on your home screen, like an app. Add 1. 1 Tap at the bottom of your screen 2. 2 Then pick “Add to Home Screen”
Share X Facebook WhatsApp Reddit Copy link
```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/","name":"Glossary"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"3","item":{"@id":"https://www.f1-fansite.com/glossary/overcut/","name":"Overcut"}}]}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"What is an overcut in F1?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"An overcut is a strategy in which a trailing driver stays out longer than the leader, using clean-air lap time to gain enough gap to rejoin ahead after the pit stops."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How is the overcut different from the undercut?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The undercut pits first for fresh tyres to jump the leader. The overcut stays out and rejoins ahead through timing rather than fresh compound."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"When does the overcut work best?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"When tyre degradation is low, when the leader pits into traffic, and when fresh tyres take time to come up to temperature."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why is the overcut less common than the undercut?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Because on most modern circuits the pace advantage of fresh tyres is immediately decisive."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which drivers are famous for the overcut?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Lewis Hamilton 2019 win at Monaco is regarded as a textbook overcut."}}]} ```