Chicane

A chicane is an artificial S-shaped curve deliberately added to a racing circuit to slow down vehicles and increase driving difficulty.

Derived from the French verb "chicaner" (meaning "to create difficulties"), chicanes typically consist of tight, alternating turns that force drivers to brake significantly. They're strategically placed after long straightaways to prevent vehicles from reaching unsafe speeds and create potential overtaking opportunities.

Famous examples include Monaco's Nouvelle Chicane, Silverstone's Becketts Complex, and Monza's Variante Ascari. Chicanes test a driver's precision while adding excitement for spectators, as these technical sections often bunch up competitors and showcase driving skill.