Defensive Line

A defensive line is a racing strategy where a driver positions their car to block or discourage an opponent from overtaking, typically by taking the inside line before a corner.

When drivers use a defensive line, they're essentially playing defense instead of focusing purely on speed. Think of it like a basketball player stepping in front of an opponent to block their path to the basket. The defending driver moves their car to cover the racing line that the attacking driver wants to use for passing.

The most common defensive line tactic happens when approaching corners. The defending driver will move toward the inside of the track, "closing the door" on any overtaking attempt. This forces the car behind to either slow down and wait for another opportunity, or try a much more difficult pass around the outside of the corner.

Drivers also use defensive lines on straight sections of track. A car following closely behind can use the slipstream (the area of reduced air resistance) to gain extra speed. The defending driver can move slightly off the ideal racing line to break this slipstream effect and make it harder for the opponent to get close enough to attempt a pass.

However, defensive driving comes with strict rules. Most racing series follow a "one move rule," meaning drivers can only make one defensive move per straight section of track. Moving back and forth to block an opponent is called "weaving" and results in penalties. Drivers also cannot make sudden defensive moves in braking zones, as this creates dangerous situations.

The key difference between legal defensive driving and illegal blocking is that defending makes overtaking more difficult but not impossible, while blocking involves multiple erratic moves that completely shut down passing opportunities. Good defensive line strategy requires drivers to anticipate their opponent's moves rather than simply reacting when someone is already alongside them.