Burnout

A burnout is the act of keeping a vehicle stationary while spinning its wheels, creating friction that heats the tires and produces smoke.

In drag racing, burnouts serve a practical purpose by warming tires to improve grip at the starting line. Drivers spin the rear wheels through a water-soaked area called the "burnout box" before taking their position at the starting line. The heated tires become stickier, providing better traction for launch.

Burnouts have evolved beyond their practical origins to become celebratory displays in many motorsports. NASCAR, Formula 1, and IndyCar winners often perform victory burnouts after crossing the finish line. While impressive to watch, performing burnouts on public roads is illegal in most countries.