Corner Exit

Corner exit is the final phase of taking a turn in motorsport, where drivers focus on accelerating as smoothly and quickly as possible while leaving the corner.

This phase begins right after the car passes the apex, which is the innermost point of the turn closest to the inside edge of the track. From this point until the car is completely straight again, the driver's main job is to gradually apply more throttle while unwinding the steering wheel.

The key to a good corner exit is balance. As the car straightens out, the tires have less turning work to do, which means they can handle more acceleration forces. Smart drivers take advantage of this by pressing the gas pedal harder as they reduce their steering input.

Most drivers use the full width of the track during corner exit, allowing their car to drift toward the outside edge. This technique creates a wider, gentler curve that lets them get on the power earlier and more aggressively without losing control.

Traction management is crucial during this phase. In rear-wheel-drive cars, too much throttle can cause the rear wheels to spin and slide. In front-wheel-drive cars, excessive power might cause the front end to push wide, forcing the driver off their intended path.

A good corner exit sets up everything that follows. Strong exit speed means higher velocity down the following straight section, which can make the difference between winning and losing. It also helps position the car properly for the next turn.

Common mistakes include applying throttle too aggressively, which breaks traction, or being too conservative with the gas pedal, which wastes precious time. The best drivers find the perfect middle ground, maximizing their exit speed while maintaining complete control of their vehicle.